March 16, 2020 —
We at Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division are working hard to support British Columbians during this unprecedented period of COVID-19 response. We’ve shared an article with some tips on how to manage the isolation and anxiety around this pandemic.
This is a hard time, particularly for people living with mental illness who are now more isolated from their usual supports.
Because we mostly do not provide in-person services at our provincial office we have decided to temporarily close our Vancouver and Victoria offices. We’re doing this to play our own small part in “flattening the curve” and slowing the spread of this virus to vulnerable people. Staff are working from home to ensure as many services continue as possible. Those include:
- Mental health information, referral and support at help@cmha.bc.ca and bcpartners@heretohelp.bc.ca
- Healthy Minds | Healthy Campuses program and Spring 2020 Scholarships & Bursaries
- Public education & awareness on social media and online here at staging.cmha-bc.flywheelsites.com and HeretoHelp.bc.ca
- BounceBack online at online.bouncebackonline.ca/
- Policy, advocacy, support for DIY fundraisers, and media relations
- Support to the network of 14 CMHA branches
We have also postponed large events, including the Bottom Line Conference, General Meetings and workplace training sessions. Our coaching programs Confident Parents, Thriving Kids (Behaviour and Anxiety streams) and BounceBack are continuing to support our clients as much as possible while still protecting our staff teams.
Now is the time to reach out to someone (via email, phone, or online chat) for connection, encouragement, and to build community.
For those struggling with anxiety, check out the great resources on www.anxietycanada.com.
Take good care of yourself, each other and your mental and physical well-being during this stressful time. And as always, your support for our work through your time, suggestions and financial contributions are appreciated. Donate
Sincerely,
Jonny Morris
Chief Executive Officer