Supporting your mental health during COVID-19

Photo: Samantha Eastman

With classes and many campus services transitioning to an online format, now is the time to get familiar with some of the online resources available to help you stay mentally and physically healthy.

Your wellbeing matters and there are many ways to stay healthy, even if you are staying home.

Taking care of your mental health is more important than ever. In times of social isolation, it can be difficult to stay connected with friends and to maintain a healthy state of mind.

Here are some actions you can take to help maintain a healthy mental state:

• Remember that it is natural to experience stress and anxiety
• Listen to your emotions
• Connect with family and friends via online resources
• Be compassionate with yourself and others
• Limit your intake of news and give yourself breaks from social media

The following resources, created earlier in 2020, include relevant information on how to care for your mental health:

• Psychology Today – How to stay emotionally healthy during the coronavirus outbreak
• World Health Organization – Mental health considerations developed by the Mental Health Department as support for mental and psychological well-being during COVID-19 outbreak
• Canadian Mental Health Association – Coronavirus: managing stress & anxiety: 7 Tips to Manage Anxiety and Worry
• Anxiety Canada – What to do if you’re anxious or worried about coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Foundry BC – Tips for when the news stresses you out
• How to get and give support during the COVID-19 outbreak

There are many organizations available to help you with any mental health issues you may be experiencing. Remember that these organizations are here to help you.  Don’t hesitate to rely on their  expertise.

Mindhealth BC (online)
Take a quick online assessment of your mental health and get resources for a variety of related concerns.

Crisiscentre BC (1-800-784-2433)
If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or at risk of harm, call or chat online with a crisis responder at any time.

Here to Help (1-800-661-2121)
Helps you find quality information, learn new skills, and connect with key resources in BC.

HealthlinkBC (811): call 811 to speak with a registered nurse or access online resources for health-related questions.

Indigenous Wellness Resources

Hope for Wellness (1-855-242-3310)
If you’re experiencing emotional distress and want to talk, contact the toll-free Hope for Wellness Help Line at  or the online chat open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

First Nations Health Authority (1-866-913-0033)
The FNHA, located in West Vancouver, provides information about health programs for First Nations

KUU-US Crisis Line Society
The KUU-US Crisis Line Society operates a 24/7 Aboriginal crisis line serving the entire province.

• Toll-Free Line (1-800-588-8717)
• Adults/Elders (250-723-4050)
• Child/Youth (250-723-2040)

It’s important to remember that stress is normal. Staying positive and taking a proactive approach to keeping yourself mentally healthy can make a difference.

It’s also important to remember that if you need help from others, resources are available. We may not be together in person, but we’re all in this together.