It’s understandable that many of us are struggling with our mental health these days – the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our daily lives and caused global grief and anxiety amongst our communities – so SEIU-West has developed this Mental Health Support During COVID-19 page in order to reassure you that you’re not alone, and that there are many resources that can help you during this challenging time. 

Please note that SEIU-West is not responsible for the content of the external sites set out on this page – we are simply attempting to share resources that are available.

Social Distancing and Still Being Social: Social distancing is mandatory in order to flatten the curve of COVID-19, but we suggest that you take this to mean physical distancing – you can still be social on the phone, online, and through many video conferencing options where there is no physical contact. We advise that you reach out to your loved ones – check out this article for many online tools that are helping people reach out to their friends and family, whether they’re next door or across the country. 
Mutual Aid:

Many people have risen to the challenge during this pandemic, and SEIU-West applauds the solidarity we’re witnessing in communities across Saskatchewan. Throughout Canada, the pandemic has led to the “caremonger” movement. Caremongering is just the opposite of fearmongering, and we’ve seen many of the caremongering efforts pop up around Saskatchewan communities. So be sure to do a caremongering search on Facebook as there are many community pages where people are sharing positive stories, while also asking for help or offering to help.  For example, check out the Caremongering Saskatoon page. And if you can’t find one in your area, we encourage you to set one up with your neighbours if you’re able to.  Just remember to limit your social media use, as often news articles are shared that can add to our anxiety.

If you're not sure how to talk to someone about mental health during COVID-19, we recommend the following resource: Tips on talking to someone in crisis during COVID-19

It's also vital that you reflect on your own mental health. Check out the following helpful resources:

EFAP:

Most SEIU-West members have access to Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). If you’re not sure you’re eligible for EFAP, call our Member Resource Centre (MRC) at 1.888.999.7348 ext. 2298 (province-wide) or use our online contact form.

With EFAP, you can access 24/7, confidential professional assistance and resources through EFAP. Keep in mind that in-person counselling is unavailable, but that there are a number of video, phone, and text options to talk to a professional. Some other services include:

  • Family support services;
  • LIFT – your virtual fitness partner;
  • Nutrition support services; and
  • Health coaching.

Visit WorkHealthLife for these and other services and check out this webinar on emotional wellbeing.

NEW! - you can also visit 3S health for a list of expanded services to support your mental wellbeing - visit this link for more information

Other important resources:

In addition to the supports mentioned above, below is a list of many more resources to support your mental wellbeing during this time but remember, you can always call our MRC at 1.888.999.7348 ext. 2298 (province-wide) or use our online contact form if you have any questions regarding COVID-19.

SEIU-West's Education Committee has a list of Mental Health Courses.

SEIU-West's Young Worker Committee is Shining a Light on Coping with Burnout.

If you have any information that you think should be added to this page, please let us know by emailing [email protected].

 

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