COVID-19 is something that has affected all of us in different ways. We’ve essentially had to learn new ways of living – from how we socialize with one another (such as keeping our social circles small, or only communicating virtually via things like Facetime, text message and e-mail) to our employment (moving from in-office to remote work – which is crucial for individuals with underlying health conditions, as these can put you at greater risk of developing COVID-19) – and it hasn’t been easy. Fortunately, many British Columbians have heeded the guidelines recommended by our health officials and stricter orders did not need to be put in place. Unfortunately, however,…

There are many things that we know about COVID-19. For example, how it can be spread from person to person and just how easy that transmission can be. We also know what some of the most common symptoms associated with the virus are – for example, it often mimics mild cold or flu-like symptoms (such as runny nose, fever and cough) while one can also experience much more severe symptoms. We also know that the best way to prevent ourselves from getting the virus is to practice the following measures: Social distancing, wearing a mask when that distance cannot be kept, and regular/frequent hygiene (i.e. washing our hands.) How COVID-19…

Millions of people, worldwide, suffer from mental illness. Among the most commonly diagnosed conditions affecting mental health are anxiety and depression, which include symptoms such as panic attacks, feelings of hopelessness, restlessness, lack of energy, anger or irritability, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, social withdrawal, thoughts of suicide, and even things like headaches, stomach aches, and other general aches and pains that are otherwise unexplained. Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can be triggered (or worsened) by life-altering events, such as a traumatic experience, financial problems, and illness – including COVID-19. The uncertainty surrounding the virus combined with increased social withdrawal and potential financial implications (due to…

When COVID-19 was first on our radar, only those who had become severely ill or individuals who were close contacts of those already diagnosed with the virus (such as family members or healthcare workers) were being tested for it – and while protocols for testing for the virus vary from province to province, state to state, and country to country, health officials right here in British Columbia are now recommending that anyone who is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 (such as a high fever and/or a dry cough), in addition to those experiencing even the mildest flu or cold-like symptoms (such as a sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches and fatigue),…