Occupational and Critical Incident Stress Management (OCISM) recognizes that we are in a time of uncertainty as messages are being broadcast daily regarding COVID-19. We understand that this can be stressful for front line nurses.
Please remember that OCISM continues to provide a 24/7 confidential service to all nurses working in First Nations communities including access to debriefings, education, and referrals to mental health practitioners. There is no disruption of service and we continue to be available through the regular methods of contact as indicated below. Tips to Take Care of Your Mental Health
Get information from reliable sources, such as Canada.ca/coronavirus.
Stay informed but follow news coverage about COVID-19 in moderation. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images repeatedly.
Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy
well-balanced meals exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep.
Make time to step back and consider how to take advantage of unexpected flexibility in your daily routine.
Stay connected. Talk to friends or family about your feelings and concerns.
Maintain healthy relationships and respect other people’s feelings and decisions.
Show support and empathy to those dealing with difficult situations.
Identify what is within your control and try to direct your energy towards what most worries you within your own control.
OCISM is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 1-800-268-7708 and ask for OCISM or e-mail us: hc.ocism-gspic.sc@canada.ca to get in touch.