Terri Eriksen

Protecting your Mental Health – COVID-19

/in , /posted by

Source: Mental Health Commission of Canada

In the midst of COVID-19, it is increasingly difficult to avoid the bleak headlines and bright-red news banners. Staying informed is, after all, one way many of us try to win back a semblance of control. But while it’s natural to seek information about this unfolding public health crisis, we must also take steps to protect our mental health.

Be selective about news sources
Where we seek information matters! Credible sources, such as the Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization give us plain facts to counteract the sensationalism and fear-provoking imagery found in the news media. Updates from neighbours or other kinds of hearsay are more likely to include selective attention to fearful cases and stories.

Carefully choosing our sources is the best way to ensure accuracy. While there is plenty of fact-based content on social media, because of the way it works it is also much more likely to turn hearsay into misinformation. The facts ­- as fluid as they may be – are essential to facing the situation appropriately.

Set boundaries on news consumption
With such a rapidly evolving situation, it can feel like even a few hours without an update will leave us in the dark. But while the information about COVID-19 is constant, it is also highly repetitive. The more often we receive information, the more it will play on our minds, and the more difficult it will be to disengage.

So, try limiting your updates to between one and three designated times per day. In the interim, make a concentrated effort to place your attention elsewhere. When it’s time to re-engage, it won’t take long to catch up.

Take action
Please utilize and share these free resources with your colleagues, neighbours, friends and family:
1. Workplace Strategies for Mental Health
2. My Workplace Health
3. Find calm with three simple techniques
4. 7 ways to create joy during isolation
5. The Employer’s Guide to Your Team’s Mental Health During COVID-19
6. Just Been Laid Off? Here’s What to Do First
7. Wellness Coach

Employee Assistance Plan (EAP or EFAP)
If your group benefits plan includes an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP or EFAP), each provider has a comprehensive library of resources that are be helpful for maintaining your physical and mental health at this time (and always). Please let us know if you need help accessing your EAP.