The Big Picture
Running for municipal office is demanding. The long hours, public scrutiny and pressure to be “always on” can take
a toll. By looking after your own mental health throughout the campaign, you’ll be better equipped to make important
decisions, communicate more effectively and lead with resilience.
The demands of campaigning can take a toll on mental health:
- Long days with little time to recharge
- Pressure to attend every event and respond to every request
- Online criticism and social media negativity
- Challenges balancing campaign, work and family
- Stress, fatigue and burnout
Early signs that stress may be building:
- Trouble sleeping or feeling exhausted
- Increased irritability with volunteers, family or staff
- Obsessively checking social media, polls or news more than usual
- Skipping meals, exercise or other basic routines
- Feeling overwhelmed, detached or emotionally drained
What you can do this week
Healthy campaigns start with healthy candidates. Small, consistent habits can help protect your mental well-being:
- Build in five-minute breaks to eat, hydrate or walk
- Delegate tasks whenever possible
- Stay connected with someone outside the campaign
- Prioritize sleep, regular meals and movement
- Debrief difficult interactions with someone you trust
Check in regularly with the six pillars of self-care: - Mental and emotional: Notice how you’re feeling
- Physical: Prioritize sleep, movement and nutrition
- Spiritual: Make time for what gives you purpose
- Social: Stay connected with family and friends
- Intellectual: Keep learning and feeding your curiosity
- Practical: Stay organized and manage daily responsibilities
A tip from the field
After election day, take time to decompress. Whether you win or lose, campaigns are
emotionally demanding. Be sure to allow yourself time to recover to support long-term
well-being. housing can be staffed and maintained.
How Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) can help
Across Ontario, 27 CMHA branches offer programs and services that can help individuals build
resilience, manage stress and connect with support in their communities, including:
- Counselling and therapy
- Stress management and wellness workshops
- Peer support
- Family support
- Referrals to local resource
Learn more
If you or someone you know needs support:
- Call 9-8-8 for a safe space to talk, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
- Find your local CMHA branch for programs and services in your community.
- ConnexOntario provides free, confidential information about mental health, addictions and problem gambling
services across Ontario, 24 hours a day.
Questions? Contact us at info@cmhabriefingroom.ca
Sources for this factsheet are available at cmhabriefingroom.ca/sources