WELLNESS ON THE FARM By Bethany Storey, BFO Communications Specialist and Darby Wheeler, BFO Policy Advisor
Providing Support for Our Loved Ones O
ver the past number of months COVID-19, along with the many other high-pressure, negative news stories and events of 2020,
have taken a toll on each and every one of us. Preliminary studies are showing that many Canadians are indicating greater levels of psychological distress due to COVID-19. It is difficult to avoid the
What Can You Do to Help There are a number of ways that a person can help another in their journey to overcome a mental illness. • T he ability to recognize when something is wrong – An important
melancholy attitude and it has become even harder when we have to
aspect of treating mental illness is getting the help needed early.
maintain our distance from those we love and our communities.
The close relationships of friends and family often results in being
As many of us know, this can certainly hit some individuals harder than others. Potentially a member of the family, a friend or a co-
the first to recognize that something is different. •H elping find help – Trusted individuals can be strong advocates
worker is experiencing a mental health challenge or dealing with a
in helping loved ones get through the difficult, early stages. An
mental illness during this time. Research confirms that support from
important aspect of this is to help those struggling to determine
a friend or family members is a key part in providing emotional and
the treatment that works for them. Do research and try to provide
practical support. So how can you recognize when someone might
examples of the different available options that might be helpful to
need your help? And what can you do?
those suffering to overcome potential embarrassment and reluctance
How to Know When to Help
to take the first step. • P rovide emotional support – Aim to be as supportive and
There are certain indicators that a family member or friend may
understanding as possible. Those struggling may be experiencing
be dealing with a mental health challenge or suffering from a mental
feelings of guilt, shame or loneliness, and supportive individuals
illness. Each person may experience a mental health challenge or
provide the hope and positive attitudes needed to move forward. It
mental illness differently, but there are some indicators that may be
is also important to take care of one’s own mental health as well.
present. Some of these indicators include (but aren’t limited to):
Supporting a loved one dealing with a mental illness can cause its
• No longer interested in common hobbies or activities
own stress and anxiety, so remember to prioritize your own personal
• Seem to feel low or depressed for no reason • Do not enjoy anything anymore
care as well. • E ncouraging a healthy lifestyle – One’s mental health is also affected by one’s lifestyle. It is important to support loved ones
• Do not seem to experience any emotion; emotionally numb
by encouraging them to get the right amount of sleep, have a
• May seem to be hearing strange voices or have unsettling thoughts
nutritious diet, regularly exercise, and find activities or hobbies that
• Have gone from being a healthy person to feeling ill frequently
can allow them to de-stress or reduce anxiety.
• Eating and sleep patterns have changed • Anxiety levels are increased over what seem to be regular events or situations • Being absent from work or school • Drinking and/or using drugs to cope • Avoiding close friends and family • Talking about taking their life
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These are just a few basic ways that you can reach out and help a loved one who may be going through a difficult time. There are also many resources that can be found online or from a family physician to gain further information and help in addressing mental health challenges or mental illnesses. For more resources on mental health and wellness, visit the following websites: Canadian Mental Health Association, Mental Health First Aid, Crisis Services Canada and Farm Credit Canada’s Wellness Tips. OB
