When it comes to addressing your mental health, the sooner the better.
“It’s so important right now for people who are experiencing feelings of sadness and fear or worrying that they’re speaking out and they’re talking to somebody about this,” said Chris Wyness, Program Manager at Nipissing Mental Health Housing Support Services (NMHHSS).
Mental Health Week is recognized nationally from May 3 to 9 in an effort to reduce the stigma around mental illnesses. Wyness says while there are seemingly brighter times ahead with COVID-19 vaccinations, it’s still important to address issues now.
“I think it’s important for folks to reach out now instead of folks waiting and saying they’ll ride this out,” he said.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 77 percent of Canadians report negative emotions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 41 percent say their mental health has deteriorated over the past year.
“A lot of times our emotional responses to significant events reflect and contribute to our overall mental health and COVID-19, as you can imagine, has intensified that,” Wyness said.
NMHHSS is holding virtual events and presentations throughout the week, which Wyness hopes will help remove a stigma around mental health.
“It’s quite difficult during a pandemic but we’re relying on others to share and open up and try to destigmatize,” he said. “It’s important to talk about it and realize it’s normal. Everybody in one form or another has mental health concerns that they’re dealing with especially during a pandemic.”
Wyness adds instances of substance abuse are on the rise during the pandemic as not everyone has access to amenities to pass the time.
“Things we take for granted like TVs and computers and phones, a lot of folks don’t have all these necessities that make these lockdowns more bearable,” Wyness noted.
Wyness urges anyone who is experiencing mental health struggles to seek help if possible, whether it’s talking to a loved one or getting professional treatment.
Click here for resources to address your mental health.
