Hello everyone!

The last month has been unlike anything I have ever lived through. Overnight our lives changed and with each passing hour, more and more about how we lived changed. In this issue I gathered information that I think may be supportive and useful for family caregivers during this uncertain time. I included information regarding stopping the spread of the virus and how to self-quarantine. Links to sources are found by clicking on the images. I also added information for supporting children and tips for managing anxieties during our time at home. CMHA's mental health week is coming up soon, find links to learn more in this issue. The Barrie Family Support Group is cancelled until further notice. I am working from home and always available to support. Family Caregivers across Simcoe County have been reaching out and I encourage anyone who is wanting to talk, to connect with me. I am here for you. Please take care yourselves while you continue to care for others while we stay home to stop the spread of this virus.

Here are some resources for family caregivers:

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak Update: Public Health Agency of Canada

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic: World Health Organization

Provincial & Territorial Resources for COVID-19: Public Health Agency of Canada

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)

Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Centre for Addiction & Mental Health

Coping with COVID-19: Anxiety Canada

Caring for your Mental Health during COVID-19: Mood Disorders Society of Canada

Psychological Impacts of the Coronavirus (COVID-19): Canadian Psychological Association

Mental Health & Psychosocial Considerations during COVID-19: World Health Organization

Take care and be safe as we get through this together.

Tara Maxwell, Coordinator

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Donations of

Personal Protection Equipment Needed

Canadian Mental Health Association of Simcoe County's essential programs (ACTT Barrie, ACTT Orillia, ACTT Collingwood and county-wide EPI) provide face-to-face service to those clients who require daily support and medication drop-off or injections. CMHA Simcoe County's PPE supplies are limited. They are in need of hand sanitizer, gowns, face masks and shields. 

If you would like to donate any new/unused items: please email Sheri Scaini         sscaini@cmhastarttalking.ca or call 705-726-5033 ext. 527

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Mental Health Week: May 4 - 10, 2020

Visit online here

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Barrie Family Support Group is Cancelled until further notice due to COVID-19.

Elizabeth Marshall is working from home and is still available to family caregivers. Contact her by leaving her a message at 705-726-5033 ext 498

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Call-in Counselling Clinic

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Crisis Services

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Family Mental Health Initiative of Simcoe County

90 Mulcaster St.

Barrie ON L4M 3M5

705-725-0363 / 1-800-324-3252

fmhi.ca