Dealing with this pandemic can be overwhelming. Many of us are struggling with what we’re seeing in the news, watching case numbers rise, or still aren’t ready to “get back to normal”. If you’re struggling, here are some tips to help take care of yourself:

For many parents or caregivers, it’s important to know first aid, at least basic first aid skills.
Would you know what to do if a child in your presence was choking?

As some COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, employers may ask their staff to return to the workplace. Adapting to many changes in a relatively short period of time can be challenging, so it’s important to make sure we are of taking care of our mental health.

When asked about his experience as a volunteer in the Friendly Calls program, Jason Robillon quickly responds: “It was exactly what I was looking for: having a consistent person to talk with once a week.”
The Canadian Red Cross Friendly Calls program focuses on forming connections and offering more social interaction to adults across the country.

“My life as I was leaving Syria took the path of the unknown. I wasn’t sure what would happen next.” Read Ghufran Othman’s story about her journey from refugee to volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross. 

In the midst of a crisis, it can be difficult to cope with feelings of fear, stress and anxiety. It’s common to feel sad, overwhelmed, or anxious. Sometimes, we may feel unsure of what to do to cope. Over-exposure to the news and social media can increase stress levels, which can negatively impact mental health and overall wellbeing. Taking time for self-care is important, especially in the current global climate.

For most of us, getting a shot only lasts an instant, but for public health specialist Shawna Novak, the vaccination story begins before clinic doors open and ends long after doses are administered.
Shawna is part of the Canadian Red Cross vaccination team operating clinics across southern Ontario.

The contributions of Canadian Red Cross personnel who have volunteered locally and around the world to natural disasters or health emergencies including throughout the COVID-19 pandemic were highlighted recently in a ceremony at the Nova Scotia legislature in Halifax to mark International Volunteer Day 2021.