Tools to Help You Cope
CONNECT.
Gemeinschaftsgefuhl is a word coined by psychologist Alfred Adler that describes a sense of psychological well being that comes when a person feels connected to others and society at large. As human beings we are wired for connection. If you’re struggling, one of the best things you can do is find a means of connection - Call a friend or family member, snuggle your pet, connect with nature, seek out a community where you feel safe and seen.
And if it feels like there’s no one available to talk right now, you can call one of the numbers below. At the other end of the phone are trained volunteers who are there to help, even if that means just listening with care.
Vancouver Island Crisis Society - 1-888-494-3888
KUU-US Crisis Line - 250-723-2323 ext 229
Foundry - Foundry offers young people ages 12-24 health and wellness resources.
Need another service? Check out BC 211 for a variety of services in your local area.
MINDFULNESS.
Research shows that Mindfulness has been proven to be helpful in a wide range of health conditions including, managing anxiety, depression, pain management and general well being. Mindfulness has been practiced by cultures in the East for centuries. John Kabat-Zinn describes mindfulness as an awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgementally. While mindfulness is innate, it can be cultivated through proven techniques, particularly seated, walking, standing, and moving meditation.
For more on Mindfulness check out:
MOVE.
Physical activity is not only good for your body but it’s great for your mind too. Research has shown that 30 minutes of physical activity 4-5 days a week can have positive impacts on one’s mental health and overall well being. Physical activity releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good, boosting your overall sense of well being, helping you concentrate as well as sleep. The best part is that it’s free! Go for a stroll, ride your bike, do a workout class, or put on your favourite piece of music and move it! Start off slow and work your way up. Try this for two weeks and notice if you feel a difference.
EXPRESS.
Life is unpredictable and involves an array of emotions and experiences. How you handle your emotions and experiences can greatly impact your mental health and well being. We all know the term ‘bottling it up’. Have you every witnessed that tactic work out well for someone? Finding a way to express yourself and your emotions is important, and you don’t have to be the next van Gogh to do so! Find a space where you feel safe and lean into what you’re feeling. Paint it, draw it, move with it, write about it, play it through a musical instrument. This may sound like bashing keys, and that’s okay! And remember, if your inner critic rears its head, you can kindly remind it that it’s not about ‘being good’ at the chosen expression. It’s about getting in touch with the feeling and expressing it.