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Photo courtesy City of Richmond
Seasonal Wellness
Published 12:16 PST, Thu December 10, 2020
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For the past 9 months, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on all aspects of our society. Fear of the virus has forced us to look more closely at how it affects all of us, particularly regarding our mental health and related issues. The pandemic makes us feel confused, sad and anxious. Self-isolation separates us from some routines we used to do to help us manage our feelings. Dealing with the virus manifests feelings of depression, anxiety, isolation and unknown stress.
As we restrict movement as part of our efforts to reduce the number of people infected with COVID-19, more and more of us are making huge changes to our daily lives. The new realities of working from home, temporary unemployment, home schooling of children, and the lack of physical contact with other family members, friends and colleagues take time to get used to. Adapting to lifestyle changes such as these and managing the fear of contacting the virus and worry about people close to us who are particularly vulnerable, are challenging for all of us. It can be particularly difficult for people with mental health conditions.
COVID-19 is taking its toll on us, both psychologically and physically. We fear exposure and being sick, then self-isolation and perhaps loss of employment. It is reported via a survey that most healthcare and support workers feel unsafe and suffer emotional stress, depression, and suffer widespread burnout., Some are on track for post traumatic disorder. We thank them for being on the front line for all of us.
From January to September 2020, the Richmond RCMP responded to almost 4,000 calls possibly related to mental health and addictions issues. Of those, over 250 were responded to by the specialized RCMP/VCH Fox 80 unit.
Richmond offers a combination of partners and supportive services that allow a variety of vulnerable groups to be served including low-income families, seniors, and individuals with mental health and addiction issues.
If in need of help, a few of Richmond’s many resources include:
• Chimo Crises Line: 604-279-7070
• 310 Mental Health Support: 310-6789 (area code not required)
• Foundry: 604-674-0550
• Community Mental Wellness Association of Canada: 604-273-1791
• SUCCESS: 604-408-7266
Traditions bring a sense of stability, but Christmas will not look the same this year. We will need to get creative and find new ways to celebrate safely, perhaps making new traditions and prioritizing what is important to us, while making special memories with our family and friends.
This holiday season may be more memorable because it is different. Spread joy and happiness whenever you can.
I wish you a safe and merry Christmas and may 2021 bring a brighter year of health and happiness to the world.
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