This COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on humanity in every way possible. With the loss of many of our senior population in care homes, the working population struggling to make ends meet without a means to an end, and now issues concerning the toll it is taking on our mental health, life isn’t looking that great at the moment.
People aren’t used to living in isolation without the hands-on and emotional support of loved ones and friends. The phrase 'no man is an island unto themself' expresses the idea that human beings do badly when isolated from others and need to be part of a community in order to thrive.
This pandemic is stripping us of our need for physical interaction by restricting closeness, no touching or hugging anyone out of our safety net. Fear is knocking at our heart’s door and at the same time eroding the mental wellness we once enjoyed.
But do not despair; there are many opportunities available to get the encouragement and help needed to get through this hard time. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Saskatchewan Division has devised a plan to assist in the wellbeing of our community. The Moose Jaw Branch has been providing information and support via telephone between the days of Monday and Friday to anyone who is feeling isolated or struggling with their mental wellness during this difficult time.
This service is offered through a separate line at 306-630-5968 for Moose Jaw; The Provincial Youth Line number is (306) 730-5900 (Please note that the Youth Line is for anyone 12-19 that wants to talk across the province). As well, they are offering direct services for anyone needing support at this time through free online learning sessions available by emailing hopelc@cmhask.com.
211 SK is a provincial resource available day or night for supports such as food, housing, mental health and any other immediate needs during the COVID-19 crisis. Please use this resource in seeking supports on behalf of others or yourself. You can call, text or go on the webpage simply by entering 211 – it is just that easy.
The Caring Place in Regina offers a variety of options to help those who need help on their website at thecaringplace.ca. Counsellors can be reached by calling 306-347-CARE (2273) or by calling toll free at 1-877-522-7464, or through e-mail at connect@thecaringplace.ca. In-person appointments are now available as of May 4, and online and telephone counselling can be found at the above. They also offer a free online depression and anxiety support group running Mondays that people can call in and be a part of. While the first intake consultation is free, The Caring Place charges for further sessions based on a client’s income.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
