Mindfulness and Mental Health
Having a healthy mind is an integral part of wellness and health. Mental health problems can greatly impact your physical health, functioning and quality of life. If you are struggling with your mood, please know that you are not alone and there are many resources within our community to help.
**COVID-19 and Mental Health**
Many of us are experiencing significant stress and anxiety as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with our resources listed below, please see some of these FREE COVID-19 specific resources to help during this unique time.
The Wellness Network: Coronavirus Anxiety Workbook
thewellnesssociety.org/free-coronavirus-anxiety-workbook/
Bay Psychology group: "Tolerance for Uncertainty: A COVID-19 Workbook"
www.baypsychology.ca/workshops
Stronger Minds by Beacon
A free CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) digital program
www.mindbeacon.com/strongerminds
Wellness Together Canada: Mental Health and Substance Use support
World Health Organization: Doing What Matters in Times of Stress
A great illustrated guide stress management guide for coping with adversity
www.who.int/publications-detail/9789240003927
Georgian Bay Family Health Team
Offering SAME DAY single session counselling by phone. Call 705-444-5885 to arrange a session.
Bounce Back Ontario
A free program through the Canadian Mental Health Association providing phone support with a coach and online videos for low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress and worry.
Meditation and Mindfulness
Meditation and mindfulness are incredibly important tools for keeping a healthy mind. They are also helpful for dealing with reproductive health issues. There are many apps available on your computer or phone which can help you incorporate mindfulness into your everyday life. Some of our favorites include:
Headspace
headspace.com
Ten Percent Happier
Both their app and podcast provide meditations and lessons in mindfulness in an approachable way.
Calm
calm.com
Meditation Studio by Gaiam
meditationstudioapp.com
The Headspace Guide to… A Mindful Pregnancy
Book by Andy Puddicombe
A wonderful book regarding mindfulness and meditation through conception, infertility, miscarriage, pregnancy, birth and bringing baby home. A personal favorite of Dr. Tomas through her pregnancies!
**For information and resources specifically about postpartum depression and anxiety, please see our "Postpartum" section.**
Mental Health Resources
There are extensive community resources and places to find help if you are struggling with your mental health. These 2 documents detail the mental heath resources for adults and youth in the South Georgian Bay area.
Coping with Depression during pregnancy and following birth
A free cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) guide developed by the BC Reproductive Mental Health Program.