Keeping up your mental health at home
By Chris Jones/The Oshawa Express
Reports of mental health declining have swirled during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Canadian Mental Health Association has a few tips on self-care.
According to Alec King, communications lead at CMHA Durham, self-isolation and social distancing can have a detrimental effect on a person’s mental health.
“Social inclusion is considered one of three particularly significant social determinants of health related to mental health,” he explains. “Research suggests that when people don’t feel they belong socially, their mental health is often affected.”
He explains while people are being advised to participate in social distancing, it’s still important to remain socially connected.
“Whether you’re someone prone to regular self-isolation, or you know someone who is, make sure you’re checking in with others, whether by phone, text, video call, or your preferred social media platforms,” he says.
For those who live alone, and being social isn’t as easy for them due to their situation, King notes self-care is critically important during this time, as worries and anxiety can be made worse if one doesn’t take care of themselves.
“Now is the time to 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,” he says.
King notes CMHA has the BounceBack program available to help those experiencing mild to moderate anxiety, stress and other mental health problems associated with the pandemic.
“Grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), BounceBack is a guided self-help approach that is a proven, effective way to help people aged 15 and up who may be feeling low, stressed out, worried, depressed, irritable or angry,” he explains.
Participants in the BounceBack program receive telephone coaching, skill-building workshops, and online videos to help them overcome their anxiety symptoms, and also gain new skills to help regain their positive mental health.
Other programs available include Big White Wall, which is an online community for people who are stressed, anxious, or feeling low. It includes round-the–clock support from trained professionals, and there is an active forum for those looking to have a chat with other members.
King also notes Kids Help Phone is there for kids 18 and under, and offers 24/7 virtual support service with professional counselling, information and referrals. It also has a volunteer-led, text-based support for kids in both English and French.
To find out more, visit bigwhitewall.com or kidshelpphone.ca. King recommends following CMHA Durham on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @cmhadurham for program and service updates.