Strong and Free: The Health Benefits of Sovereignty and Why I’m Proud to Be Canadian

There’s something truly satisfying about being able to stand on your own. Whether it’s an

individual, a family, or an entire nation, independence is the foundation of stability, health, and a

strong sense of identity. Without sovereignty, a country is like a person without control over their

own life—constantly pulled in different directions and unable to make decisions that serve its

best interests. With the G7 Summit coming up this June in Canada—set against the stunning

backdrop of Kananaskis, Alberta—I’ve been thinking about why sovereignty is so important. It’s

not just about politics or national pride; it’s a key part of overall well-being.

Sovereignty: The Self-Care of Nations

Lately, caring for oneself has become a popular idea, and understandably so. Individuals have

started to value the need to set limits, honor their worth, and choose actions that safeguard their

well-being. Yet a point that is frequently missed is that these very concepts also suit nations.

When a nation controls its own territory, protects its boundaries, applies policies designed for its

citizens, and builds a strong shared identity, it behaves much like a balanced person—serene,

self-assured, and robust. They remain vital.

Imagine living in a world where someone else makes all of the decisions for you, dictating what

is best and meddling in your private affairs. A life like that would be exhausting, annoying, and

detrimental to your general well-being. When a country lacks true independence, a similar

pattern shows up. Deprived of the freedom to choose for itself, a country shows clear signs of

long-term strain—disunity, worry, unrest, and a slow decline in its collective strength. If this rings

a bell, it is due to recurring events.

Canada: More Than Just a Friendly Neighbor

I am reminded of how unique our nation is by the occasional discussion about Canada possibly

becoming the "51st state" of the US, a situation that I personally find absurd and unimaginable.

To be clear, I don't harbor any animosity toward our neighbors to the south. There is no

doubting that the United States is a major force in the world. But Canada is more than just the

United States' northern neighbor. We have our own policies, values, and way of life, and we are

a completely different entity.

What makes Canada work is precisely this independence. We have policies—like universal

healthcare—that prioritize the well-being of our citizens. Our vast natural resources fuel our

economy and provide opportunities for prosperity. But more than anything, we have a culture

that is rooted in peace, kindness, and resilience. Canadians are known for being polite, but that

does not mean we are weak. Strength is not about loudness or aggression; it is about standing

firm in our values and ensuring that we take care of our people.

The fact that Alberta is hosting the G7 Summit this year is particularly interesting. Alberta, often

called the “Texas of the North,” has had its own moments of contemplating separation from the

rest of Canada. And while these debates are complex, one thing is clear: strong provinces make

a strong country, just as strong individuals make a strong family. We need each other, and

when we work together, we thrive.

Mental Health and National Identity: More Connected Than You Think

As a physician and wellness coach, I have spent years studying the connection between mental

health and identity. When individuals lose their sense of self—whether due to external

pressures, a lack of autonomy, or constant comparison to others—they begin to struggle.

Anxiety creeps in. Self-doubt festers. Burnout becomes inevitable. The same principles apply to

entire nations.

A country without sovereignty is like a person without firm boundaries. It gets caught up in

conflicts that don’t align with its interests, is pressured to compromise on values that define its

identity, and eventually loses focus on what truly matters.

Canada is often seen as a “nice” country, but kindness shouldn’t be mistaken for weakness.

Real strength doesn’t come from exerting control or dominance; it comes from having

unwavering confidence in one’s identity. With its vast landscapes, resourceful people, and

dedication to peace, Canada stands among the strongest nations in the world.

Peace, Cohesion, and the Power of Stability

One of the best things a country can have is peace of mind, which is provided by a stable, well-

run nation. People can concentrate on what truly matters—starting businesses, raising families,

doing what they love, and looking after their health—when things are stable.

Now consider areas where instability is commonplace. There, people constantly worry about

their safety, their future, and whether they will have enough money to survive. Their mental

health suffers greatly as a result. In contrast, despite its own difficulties, Canada offers its

citizens a sense of security that somewhat eases the navigation of daily life.

We are able to breathe. We can make plans. We can make progress in the future.

This is what sovereignty provides—the ability to chart our own course and create an

environment where people can thrive. A nation that prioritizes its own well-being, secures its

borders, and fosters unity will always be in a better position to care for its citizens.

Why I’m Proud to Be Canadian

As we approach the 51st G7 Summit, I can’t help but feel immense pride in my country. Canada

is not perfect—no country is—but it is ours. And just as I encourage my patients to take control

of their health and well-being, I believe that every country should take responsibility for its

future.

Sovereignty is not just about politics. It is about well-being. It is about ensuring that a country

has the freedom to make the best decisions for its people without undue interference. And

whether we are talking about individuals, families, or nations, the goal remains the same: to be

strong, secure, and free.

Dr. Tomi Mitchell

Proud Canadian. Advocate for health. Champion of true independence.