The pandemic has brought with it, among other things, added stress. Whether it’s the blurring of boundaries between work and home, being a parent to young kids or trying to keep your small business alive, most of us have faced incredible stressors lately.
Bereavement, isolation, loss of income and fear are triggering mental health conditions or exacerbating existing ones. Many people may be facing increased levels of alcohol and drug use, insomnia, and anxiety. Meanwhile, COVID-19 itself can lead to neurological and mental complications, such as delirium, agitation, and stroke. People with pre-existing mental, neurological or substance use disorders are also more vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection and may have a higher risk of severe outcomes including death.
The negative impact of the last year and a half is undeniable, but it’s also sparked a much-needed conversation: how do we deal with the mental health fallout? A study done on behalf of the Mental Health Commission of Canada estimates that by 2041, the cumulative cost of mental illness in the country will be $2.5 trillion.
This means educating ourselves on the mental health and overall well-being of everyone is a priority that benefits us all.
Here are some healthy ways you can deal with stress:
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed but hearing about traumatic events constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple of times a day and disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. If social distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
Talk to others. Share your problems and how you are feeling and coping. Talk with a parent, friend, counsellor, or doctor.
Recognize when you need more help. If problems continue or you are thinking about suicide, talk to a psychologist, social worker, or professional counsellor.
