Navigating the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant stress and uncertainty for health care workers. It may be difficult to cope during these challenging times and it is important to take time to take care of your own health and wellbeing. Self-care is taking time to do things that improve your physical health and mental health. Self-care can help to manage stress, improve mood, and increase energy. Self-care activities look different for everyone and even in small amounts can be beneficial in relieving stress.
Here are some self-care ideas:
- Set aside time for exercise. Physical activity is a great way to reduce stress, and improve mood and overall health. Consider taking a short walk during a lunch or coffee break.
- Know and respect your limits and try to find balance. Consider setting aside time to ‘unplug’ from electronic devices and instead do something fun and healthy for yourself.
- Aim to get proper rest. Inadequate sleep can contribute to stress while healthy sleep routines can improve well-being.
- Include yourself on the list of people you are taking care of. Be kind to yourself. Set aside time to participate in social and recreational activities that you enjoy.
- Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge negative, unhelpful thoughts.
- Practice gratitude. Remind yourself of things you are grateful for and write them down as visual reminders.
Despite incorporating various self-care practices, you may continue to experience challenges. If you feel you are not coping well and are experiencing significant distress, you may benefit from formal support from someone like your family doctor, nurse practitioner or a mental health professional.
Here are some mental health resources available for additional support:
- Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) (807) 623-7677
- Walk-In Counselling
- Thunder Bay Counselling Centre & Children’s Centre Thunder Bay (807) 700-0090
- Dilico Anishnabek Family Care (807) 624-5818
- Thunder Bay Crisis Response Service (807) 346-8282
- CAMH Mental Health Support for Health Care Workers during COVID-19: https://www.camh.ca//covid19hcw