This past week has been upsetting, to say the least. I can’t say I’m altogether shocked by the results of the US presidential election, but I am disappointed. At times like this, when the world seems so ugly and cruel, it’s easy to get dragged down to some pretty dark places, to obsess over feelings of helplessness and despair.

This is why it’s so important to have a mental health toolkit ready. It can be a literal toolkit, with things like scented candles, colouring books, and chocolate in i...