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durhamregion.com 6 The Citizen January 26, 2017 I begin 2017 with a renewed call for kindness. For any folks that have lost a loved one over the holiday season, they are all well aware of the need to live out every day by being kind to one another. A friend suggested to me that we never know when our "ticket" is up. All the more importance, then, of living every day "in a good place." I personally find it so much easier to be nice to people whether it's while driving, waiting in line at the checkout, shoveling that extra bit of snow for a neighbour, or just saying hello to people and smiling. As everyday pressures seem to mount on young and old alike, mental health awareness initiatives and support programs seem more valuable than ever. For those who may be the target of bullying or feeling pressured in the workplace or in school or in public, help is available. If you feel unduly pressured in any situation, options are always available. In the workplace, you can approach a supervisor. At school, students can always ask a teacher or ask to speak with their school's principal. In the public realm, people can sometimes approach a friendly stranger for help. If you feel depressed please contact your doctor. One key theme that I feel important is to openly talk about potential issues with friends or family or teachers or workplace supervisors. For those people who might wish to find out more in the area of available mental health services, both the Durham District School Board (905-666-5500 or www.ddsb.ca) and the Durham Catholic District School Board (905-576-6150 or www.dcdsb.ca) offer programs to assist parents and students in their schools with mental health concerns. Durham Regional Police Services (905-579-1520 or www.whitby@drps.ca) can also always be called for direction. If someone you know is in crisis, call Durham Mental Health Services, which provides information about free and confidential crisis services at 905-666-0483 or 1-800-742-1890 (toll-free). Of course, in the event of an imminent crisis or emergency, 911 is always available any time. The next time you encounter someone who appears overwhelmed with the day's events, perhaps a smile, a simple "Hello" or a short and caring question like "Can I help you?" might make you both feel a bit happier. If the person appears more distressed you might ask "Are you alright?" Perhaps just knowing that someone cares could impact their day in a positive way. Sometimes the easiest approach is to just be kind to one another. Jim McGrorey is a Brooklin resident, chair of the Brooklin Spring Fair Parade and volunteer and events co-ordinator for the Whitby Road Watch Committee New year a renewed call for being kind to one another JIM McGROReY community BROOKLIN -- Columnist Jim McGrorey is beginning this year with a renewed call for kindness. He's going to live every day in a good place and hopes many will follow his example. Benjamin PrieBe / metroland Builders of Tomorrow WHITBY -- Anthony Ahou worked to finish his Lego bridge, during the Brooklin Library's educational Builders of Tomorrow program on Jan. 18. The program runs until mid-February.