Continuing to support our mental health through uncertainty and change

September 3, 2021 -  Defence Stories

Although each person experiences and adapts to change differently, constant change and disruption to personal and professional lives is connected to some degree of worry and nervousness.  Naturally, the uncertainty felt over the last year and a half has left people feeling anxious about new phases of the pandemic, while also feeling hesitant about returning to pre-pandemic routines.

For those who are finding it difficult to re-adjust and continue adapting to changing situations, you are not alone. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) found that nearly 30 per cent of Canadians are reporting moderate to severe anxiety about returning to their pre-pandemic routines.

Regardless of your experience as you continue to adapt to change, it is important to remember that when life gets busy, we often forget to take care of ourselves. Including self-care in your daily or weekly routine can significantly improve resilience and prevent burnout. The Working Mind training program has created a COVID-19 Self-care & Resilience Guide (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) to help identify where you are on the Mental Health Continuum, guidance on how to create a self-care and resilience plan, and provides a list of mental health resources you can use.

It is really important to continue taking care of your mental health, especially during challenging times. Workplace Strategies for Mental Health has a resource on Managing stress (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) which provides information on how to manage reactions to stress and protect your well-being and Anxiety Canada has developed several helpful how-to documents (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) for both parents with children.

To learn ways to support yourself, while continuing to adjust to new situations and circumstances, register here for our September 14 (EN) and 15 (FR) webinar: Coping with Stress and Anxiety as we Continue Adapting to Change. This webinar is open to all Defence Team members.

Programs and resources available for Defence Team Members

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP) are here to help public service employees and CAF personnel, families, and veterans cope with professional or personal challenges that may impact their health and well-being. If you find yourself needing a helping hand or simply wanting to talk to someone, the DND/CAF have resources available to help.

Subscribe to the Organizational Well-Being distribution list to stay informed on mental health and wellness topics, learn about upcoming webinars, and much more.