Canada has announced to invest US$170 million toward developing virtual and mental health care amid the coronavirus pandemic, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has annouced.
The funds will be used to create digital platforms and apps to improve access to mental health support and expand capacity to deliver health care virtually, according to Trudeau’s announcement.
“While we all do our part to fight COVID-19, it can be a challenge to deal with everything that’s happening around us and to get the help and services we need to feel well,” Trudeau said in the announcement.
“It’s important that we take care of ourselves and our families during these challenging times, and that’s why we’ve introduced more virtual health resources and mental health tools to further support Canadians through this crisis,” he added.
The investment will support Wellness Together Canada, an online portal that provides Canadians with resources, tools and professional support services to help with wellness and resilience, as well as mental health and substance abuse.
Earlier, Scottish Government had also announced to launch ‘Clear Your Head’ campaign. The campaign highlights the practical things people can do to help them feel better whilst continuing to stay at home, acknowledging these are worrying and uncertain times for many.
The campaign has listed some simple steps to taking better care of our mental health and wellbeing:
- Keeping to a routine – trying to sleep and wake at the same time, and eating at regular times.
- Moving more – staying active, within the current guidance, to boost your mood.
- Taking a break – limiting exposure to the news on social media if you feel things are getting on top of you, instead using fun games, quizzes and apps online to pass the time.
- Making time for yourself – simply taking a breather or doing something you enjoy.
- Keeping in touch – phoning family and friends to ease worry and feel connected.
COVID-19’s implications for our mental health
COVID-19’s implications for our mental health are likely to last long after the threat posed by the coronavirus goes away.
People are watching news around the clock and this is feeding morbid and obsessive thoughts. Uncertainty over the future has been running high especially with the imposition of the lockdown and the consequent restriction on access to food and the impending loss of jobs. The past few months have not been easy for those already struggling with mental health problems. Some are dealing with an intensification of their symptoms.
