SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH DURING COVID-19

Supporting Mental Health During COVID-19

COVID-19, the Coronavirus, has had a profound physical, financial, social and psychological impact on Canadians. Public health authorities are focusing on ensuring that Canadians stay physically healthy, or get treatment if they have the virus. But many more may be struggling with the emotional, relational or mental effects of the crisis. In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of mental wellbeing and what resources are available to help you.

This is where an employee and family assistance program like GroupHEALTH’s LifeWorks is here to support you.

Mental Health Challenges

As we get live updates from around the world constantly, we’re seeing countries gravely affected by COVID-19. We’re seeing healthcare systems in crisis. We’re seeing it all unfold virtually, but we’re also living it. We’re experiencing a “new” reality with health orders that affect every aspect of our day to day lives. It can be hard to take.

Like many people, you may be feeling anxiety, stress and worry. Some of the worries plaguing your mental health may include:

Budget and financial worries – Thinking about how you or your family members will deal with the loss of income, reduced income or other financial troubles is on everyone’s minds these days.

Work challenges – Practicing social distancing may have completely changed your day-to-day work environment. Maybe you’re working from home for the first time ever, or you’re working on the front lines and are worried about contracting the virus.

Childcare issues – Schools across Canada and around the world have been affected. If you have school-aged children, you’re having to think about who will look after your children while they are out of school, and how their education will be affected.

Relationship pressures – Practicing social distancing may mean you are not able to be physically close to those you love, or conversely, you may not be able to have any alone time from those with whom you’re isolated. Navigating this can be a real challenge.

LifeWorks as a Resource

Your employee and family assistance program is here for you during this very difficult time. LifeWorks has had no disruption in service and can be a great, confidential resource as you navigate a challenging personal, social and employment situations. It’s available 24/7 both online and via telephone. Support available through LifeWorks includes:

Counselling – one of the foundations of the LifeWorks program is short-term counselling by licensed, experienced clinical counsellors. LifeWorks will put you in touch with an expert to help you navigate the mental, relational and emotional concerns arising from COVID-19. During this time of social distancing, counselling can be conducted via video chat or telephone.

Online Resources – LifeWorks offers an online website overflowing with resources you can access at your leisure. Articles, podcasts, infographics and videos on many topics you may be struggling with are available. The resources support more than just your mental and emotional wellbeing: they also provide practical advice on challenges such as:

• How to stay fit at home
• Entertaining/educating kids while school is out
• Working from home
• Budgeting
• Staying positive
• Using technology to stay in touch

A Time of Change

We have all seen how quickly our everyday lives have changed under the direction of provincial and federal health authorities. More change is occurring every day, and this in itself is a challenge. LifeWorks is constantly updating information to support this evolving situation and can be there for you during this time of change.

When the threat of COVID-19 passes, things will change again. Life will slowly return to a new normal, and businesses, individuals and companies will have to deal with the financial and economic implications of the pandemic. LifeWorks can continue to be a resource for you as you navigate these changes.

Good Advice is Key

Getting advice and support from reputable sources is key during a time of crisis. If you’ve never accessed LifeWorks before, now may be a good time to give it a try. We’re all in this together: we encourage you to take care of your mental health (as well as your physical health) should be a priority.

If you’re looking for information on LifeWorks and your benefit plan, or anything else related to group benefits, we’re here to help.