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Resiliency during the COVID-19 Outbreak
CMHA recognizes that at this time of uncertainty, symptoms of anxiety and depression may be exacerbated. These five basic tips may help individuals experiencing heightened mental health concerns to remain calm and balanced as this public health situation unfolds.
- Considering the level of attention and seriousness being paid to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s normal to feel anxious. Try not to avoid, ignore or suppress anxious thoughts. Instead, be aware of your anxiety and accept that you’re feeling anxious in this situation. Try to keep things in perspective; notice and challenge your thoughts that may be extreme or unhelpful.
- Self-care is critically important at this time, as worries can be made worse if we aren’t taking care of ourselves. Lean on social supports, try to get enough sleep, eat healthy, exercise and engage in enjoyable activities. Do the things you would typically do to support your health, and be sure to use caution and follow health and safety guidelines while doing them.
- Seek information from reliable news sources only. Limit checking in on the latest news to short, defined periods, and refrain from setting related push notifications on your device. Appropriate information consumption may be calming and can lessen the sense of danger.
- Take the recommended precautions as outlined by Health Canada and other credible health agencies. Remain focused on the factors within your control, such as washing hands, covering your mouth during coughs and sneezes, avoiding non-essential travel, etc.
- If you’re noticing that your symptoms of anxiety (in association with COVID-19 or otherwise) are causing you significant distress or are interfering with your ability to function normally, reach out for formal mental health supports from a recognized agency, such as CMHA.
Online Supports:
Connected Breath: Guided practice breathing
Articles and Blogs:
Coronavirus Social Story for Kids
WDGPH Taking Care of Your Mental Health During Social Distancing and Self-Isolation
BBC CoronaVirus: How to Protect Your Mental Health
Talk to Kids About the Coronavirus
WHO Mental Health Considerations during COVID-19 Outbreak
Videos:
A Three Step Approach to Managing Uncertainty
Tip Sheets:
Talking to your Anxious Child about Covid-19
Things you can do to manage anxiety
Strategies for Safer Substance Use
Grounding Activities: a list of things to do when feeling anxious, uneasy and overwhelmed.