During times of uncertainty such as this, there are many responses people may have. Some common experiences as the situation with COVID-19 unfolds include stress, anxiety, worry, anger, fear, changes in mood, and loneliness. These are normal reactions to an unusual situation! As humans, we often like to feel certain about what the future holds. We are also social animals, and social distancing and isolation can be difficult. However, we can learn to be more comfortable with uncertainty, to manage our stress, and to connect with others in new ways. We can continue to take charge of our well-being within our sphere of influence. We can practice being flexible and adaptable!
Here are a few of many resources for more information and support to cope with the impacts of COVID-19.
- A VIU Counsellor's letters to students - read or listen to October's letter
- Virtual Mental Health Supports in BC for everyone - a list of virtual supports available across BC
- Managing your mental health during COVID-19 - a free online course
- Love is Louder - offers tips, tools and resources for taking care of our physical and mental health, and supporting each other during this time of uncertainty
- Strengths-Based COVID-19 Resources - from the VIA Institute on Character
- How to be at Home - supportive words about loneliness and staying at home
- What to do if you are anxious or worried about COVID-19 - tips from Anxiety Canada
- A list of free online meditation resources for a time of social distancing - from the Awake Network
- Tips about choosing sources of information - from the Mental Health Commission of Canada
- How to prevent loneliness in a time of social distancing - advice for preserving your mental health while avoiding physical proximity
- Guide to well-being during coronavirus - from the Greater Good Science Center
- Seven science-based strategies to cope with coronavirus anxiety
- Managing stress and anxiety about COVID-19 - Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Stronger Minds - by Beacon is a Free Digital Program for all Canadians to support your mental well-being through the COVID-19 Crisis.
- Bounce Back - free skill building program to people 15+ in BC
- Greater Good in Action - a range of science based practices to help cultivate states such as optimism, connection, and resilience to stress
Also, check out these Tips About How To Be A Successful Student During COVID 19 from VIU's Centre for Innovation and Excellence in Learning.
VIU counsellors have also collected a broad range of recommended health and wellness resources to support and inform you.
Let's choose to be kind and compassionate to ourselves and to each other as much as possible as we navigate this difficult situation together. Stay tuned to the coronavirus updates and information from VIU indicating services available to you.
