Reach out for help if you need it

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This article was published 31/03/2020 (2072 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

While many businesses close their doors, the Canadian Mental Health Association continues to help Manitobans take care of themselves.

CMHA Manitoba and Winnipeg will keep its doors open, allowing residents to stop by if they’re facing a mental health crisis. However, most of their services will be provided over the phone or by email. They are also cancelling or rescheduling all support groups and training sessions.

Stephen Sutherland, manager of Youth Mental Health Promotions at CMHA Manitoba and Winnipeg, said Manitobans need their help now more than ever.

“Unfortunately, our mental health doesn’t take a break,” Sutherland said. “People are worried about finances, layoffs … Our service navigation hub is the most important service we’re providing. People are calling in, wondering ‘how do I protect my mental health during this time?’ That need hasn’t diminished; in fact, it’s expanded.”

The CMHA Navigation Hub connects Manitobans with mental health resources such as support groups, one-on-one support, among other things. Sutherland said a lot of their clients are concerned, they don’t know what resources they can access during the pandemic.

CMHA is attempting to move it’s training programs online. Most of their staff are working from home, continuing to support people during this crisis.

As of March 18, all courses and training sessions at the CMHA Well-being Learning Centre were being rescheduled. All evening and weekend support groups and education sessions were cancelled, as well as any workplace training sessions. Manitobans can still contact CMHA Manitoba to connect with their workers via phone and email.

CMHA Manitoba will be posting mental health tips and updates on all of its social platforms, as well as its website.

Sutherland said residents can still take care of themselves during the pandemic.

“Remember that self-isolating does not mean we’re isolated. For most of our clients, their number one goal is to reduce isolation, now they’re being told to stay at home,” Sutherland said. “Stay connected, connect with friends and family by text and phone. We are resilient beings, it’s about remembering all the things we’ve done pre-COVID-19 that helped sustain ourselves so far. Find ways to make it work for you.”

If you are struggling with a mental health crisis, there is help out there. Call the CMHA Navigation Hub at 204-775-6442 or email to hub@cmhawpg.mb.ca. Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba has created a support line for Manitobans, which is 204-925-0040.

For more information, visit mbwpg.cmha.ca

Keep calm and carry on

Stephen Sutherland of CMHA Manitoba provided a list of tips for those who might be struggling with mental health issues.

Tip 1: Be gentle with yourself. Stress and anxiety are normal. You can use techniques such as breathing exercises, mindfulness training, exercise, etc.

Tip 2: Stay connected. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people, check in on friends and family via text, FaceTime, etc.

Tip 3: Maintain a routine. When someone self isolates, it can be boring and difficult. If you plan your day out and create some structure, it will help you get through the week.

Tip 4: Seek help when you need it. Many mental health organizations are still doing peer support over the phone. Some psychologists and therapists can offer sessions over the phone as well.