Mayor Don Darling says the theme for 2020 will be all about "restructuring." (Danielle McCreadie)
Saint John’s Mayor is encouraging more open and honest discussions around mental health in 2020.
Don Darling says this past year has mayor has taken a toll on him, but he’s doing what he needs to take care of himself.
“My mental health is very strong at the moment but like anyone else in our great communities in Saint John and all around, there’s days where I have bad days too. So I think it’s being conscious that it’s okay not to be okay, and if you need help, get help,” he said.
Darling says he plans on making mental health care a priority in the New Year, and urges others to as well.
“Invest in both physical and mental health, so I’m trying to do a better job of eating better and getting to the gym and visiting with my doctors when I need to visit with them,” he said.
Darling says being Mayor is a “tough gig,” but luckily he has a strong support system.
“It’s a tough job. It’s very demanding. It’s been hard many nights, many committees, many late evenings, many sleepless nights. It’s been hard on my family. So it’s a demanding job,” he said.
Darling says being mayor has its difficult moments, but it has been some of the most meaningful work he’s ever done.
“I dislike the mean-ness of politics and the pace of politics, but I’ve been pretty honest with people about that throughout the year,” he said.
He says one of the struggles he faced in 2019 was feeling a lack of support and faith from residents.
“It’s difficult to feel the quiet support,” said Darling.
He says he knows those who support him and want to see a vibrant and thriving Saint John are out there, and hopes they will be more vocal in 2020.
