Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being in Challenging Times

Published on Mar 20, 2020

We are being bombarded with a lot of information at the moment and it feels like we don’t have a lot of control over the things that are going on around us.

This can definitely impact our mental health, and for those already faced with mental health concerns, it is even more challenging.

Here are some ideas that may help protect our mental health:

1. Limit the news and be aware of what you are reading:

  • Limit the amount of time you spend reading or watching things that aren't making you feel better.
  • There is a lot of misinformation out there - stay informed by using trusted sources of information such as Provincial Health Authority websites.

2. Take breaks from social media and avoid things/situations that are triggering.

3. Stay connected with people:

Social-distancing is the socially responsible thing to do, but it can also lead to feelings of isolation (literally and figuratively). Stay connected with the people you care about. In addition, helping others in the community, particularly those who are vulnerable, can help both your and their sense of well-being. A telephone check-in, game of internet scrabble or eating dinner with friends via FaceBook may be a lifeline to someone in self-isolation.

4. Look after yourself:

Sleep, a healthy diet and plenty of exercise will help maintain good mental health.

For those who would like additional support, NIC Counselling Services is available through telephone or Skype appointments.

Please book your appointment online or contact Student Services to make an appointment:

  • Campbell River/Mixalakwila: 250-923-9700 or toll-free 1-800-715-0914

  • Comox Valley: 250-334-5000 or toll-free 1-800-715-0914

  • Port Alberni: 250-724-8711 or toll-free 1-800-715-0914

For additional or out-of-hours support, the following resources are available:

  • Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 1-888-494-3888

  • Vancouver Island Crisis Text: 250-800-3806

  • Keep.meSAFE: 1-844-451-9700

  • KUU-US Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717

For those who have general questions, please contact our Student Life department:

  • Disha Salhan, Student Life and Outreach Liaison: Email – disha.salhan@nic.bc.ca / Phone – 250-334-5000, ext. 4038

  • Dean Martin, Manager, Student Life: Email – dean.martin@nic.bc.ca / Phone – 250-334-5000, ext. 4269