With the current crisis, mental health is at the heart of our concerns. We all face challenges, a loss of bearings: radical changes in human relationships, new ways of working, loss of individual freedom, financial difficulties, concerns for loved ones. Our ability to adapt is therefore constantly challenged which may be anxiety-provoking.
Finding meaning in everything that happens as well as putting words on our discomfort can be emotionally demanding. This can make us feel unsettled, vulnerable, or perhaps not at our best to take on our responsibilities. In order not to lose care of our mental health, let’s #GetReal about how we really feel by having honest conversations with our relatives, community and colleagues.
The campaign theme of the National Mental Health Week, that will take place from May 4th to May 10th, will focus on the importance of this social connection in a time of a social distancing. We are all invited to join a Power Chat on COVID-19 on May 5th where expert panelists will answer our questions on how to maintain social connections while juggling personal responsibilities with professional duties, in atypical working conditions.
In order to develop our resilience, many other reliable sources of information and videoclips are also available outside of the government servers (VPN):
- Mental Health and COVID-19 for public servants: Protect your mental health
- Not Myself Today (Create your personal account using access code: RBQNEM)
- Wellness Together Canada
- Videos to support mental health through COVID-19
Remember that if you are in distress, you can contact at anytime your Employee Assistance Program (by phone at 1-800-268-7708 or by TTY at 1-800-567-5803) or nearest crisis centre. If it’s an emergency call, please dial 9-1-1.