It’s okay to go at your own pace
Tempting as it may be, you don’t have to rush into doing everything you weren’t able to while restrictions were in place. Take your time and make sure you are comfortable before you move forward.
If you aren’t comfortable going out with a mask just yet, that is fine. You don’t have to. You can still keep your mask on in public places, even though it is not required by a mandate.
Set boundaries if you need to
If you are uncertain about returning to a pre-COVID way of life, you can still implement restrictions in your personal life to help you feel safe, like wearing a mask in public places and limiting your social gatherings. This could look like only going to small parties where you know you can safely social distance or whose guests are vaccinated or had a negative test result.
This is your personal health, and you should feel comfortable putting up boundaries that work best for you.
Talk about the changes with friends and family
Talking about your worries and anxieties with others can help you work through them. Whether you agree with them or not, they could present you with a different perspective you may not have considered. This also gives your friends and family a chance to further explore and voice their own anxieties. Remember to be honest and open minded.
Be discerning and critical
of your sources
COVID-19 has been named an “infodemic” by many, and this title is still accurate. Plenty of misinformation and outdated information is out there.
When getting info on COVID-19, vaccines, restrictions, and more, it is important to consider the authors. Are they experts in their field? Are they credible? The doctor who has dedicated their life to studying vaccines and its uses is likely more credible than the movie star on Twitter, or your next door neighbour.
When you look at when the information was published, be sure it is recent. What was true last month may not be true now. If you are ever unsure about a piece of information, you can always email us at health@metis.org and we will do our best to either confirm or correct the information you see.
Take time to destress and relax
It is important to take a break from COVID. Here are some ideas to make time for yourself:
- Resist the urge to scroll through social media. Try turning your notifications off for one hour. Social media is full of misinformation and negativity. Taking a break is healthy and a form of self-care.
- Read a book
- Go for a walk while listening to music
- Meditate
- Reconnect with your culture through beading, or being on the land
Challenge your anxiety
Make a list of everything you would like to do now that restrictions have lifted. Think about the reasons why these activities might make you anxious and rank them by level of stress. Start with the activity that causes you the least amount of stress and anxiety.
Acknowledge uncertainty
still exists in the world
Nothing is certain! If your brain tries to give you a “what if” question (e.g. What if this isn’t safe?) you can answer yourself with: “Maybe yes, maybe no. I am willing to be uncertain about this.”
Seek out supports!
We have supports in place to help you on your mental health journey and work through the COVID-19 anxiety you may be experiencing.
- MNA Wellness Program: MNA Citizens have access to 12 hours of free, professional, confidential, and culturally-sensitive counselling. All you need is your MNA citizenship number to access this FREE program. Learn More!
- Community Wellness Advocate (CWA): Through a broadened definition of mental health, the CWA recognizes the interconnectedness and balance of life’s different parts such as family, community, and spirituality, and provides flexible, holistic, client-centered care. The CWA can help Métis Albertans aged 16 and older in their mental wellness journey by providing: information and referrals, advocacy and support, help with mental-wellness related goals, and system navigation. Learn More!