Viva Vitality: Cooking for Mental Wellness

By Heather Mathur

Mental well-being is shaped by many elements including our daily routines and social connections. During Mental Health Awareness Week, May 4 – 10, one simple and enjoyable way to support mental health is by disconnecting from screens and reconnecting with others through cooking, gardening, and sharing meals. In this way, you can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and build healthier habits.

Taking time to eat without distractions encourages mindfulness and connection. Sit down to enjoy meals with others—without the TV or electronic devices—to allow space for conversation and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Slowdown and be present to make meals more enjoyable and meaningful.

Cooking at home also supports healthy eating. Meals prepared at home often include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and protein foods, while being lower in salt, sugar and highly processed ingredients. A balanced diet helps fuel the brain and supports mood, memory and energy throughout the day.

Involving others in meal preparation can help make cooking less stressful and more enjoyable. Sharing tasks with family members, including children and teenagers, provides opportunities to learn skills, pass on traditions and build confidence. Cook with a friend, swap recipes with neighbours, or join a community kitchen or cooking class to add social connection. For those who find cooking overwhelming, community kitchens, seniors’ centres and meal programs can offer both practical support and companionship.

Mental well-being can also be supported outside the kitchen. Gardening provides light physical activity, fresh air and time outdoors—all of which are linked to improved mood. Gardening can also be social, whether through chatting with neighbours, sharing plants, or gardening with family and friends. Even without a yard, containers, balconies, or community gardens can offer these benefits. An added bonus is enjoying fresh, flavourful produce at meals.

Sharing meals adds another important layer of support. Eating with others is linked to improved happiness and lower feelings of loneliness. Invite a neighbour over, cook with friends or join a community meal. Food has a natural way of bringing people together. Regular shared meals, especially for families, can enhance communication, reduce stress and support social well-being.

For more information on Mental Health Awareness Week, visit cmha.ca.

Heather Mathur is a Registered Dietitian with Alberta Health Services. Visit ahs.ca/nutrition to learn more about Nutrition Services and services supported by AHS dietitians.