The Bancroft Family Health Team will be holding a virtual check-in twice weekly for people feeling anxious or afraid due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ll have different staff participating like our social worker and dietitian,” BFHT’s Executive Director Sandra McGrath explains. She says the people leading the conservation will be changed up every week. “We’re trying to focus on mental health topics,” McGrath adds. “What people can do while they’re isolated to help get them through the day.”
Accept that some anxiety and fear is normal,” the health team says. “We all have a lot of questions and some things that we can’t answer during these times. It is normal to feel some amount of anxiety or fear. Allowing yourself to feel that can sometimes take away some of the judgement associated with those feelings.”
They suggest that you do something every day that you enjoy and staying active, like reading a book or walking if you’re able to leave your house.
The check-ins will happen every Tuesday and Thursday from 1 PM until 2. You can join online or by calling 1-867-292-3030 and using access code: 6765334. “Anyone can sign up and participate,” McGrath says.
Addictions and Mental Health Hastings-Prince Edward has set-up a pandemic hotline at 613-967-4737 for more immediate help and Kids Help Phone is also available through 1-800-668-6868 or you can text 686868.