Tips for dealing with crisis offered to Campbell River seniors, those with medical conditions

Information about the pandemic is being made available for seniors and people with medical conditions.

Because this segment of the population is more vulnerable to COVID-19, the Strathcona Regional District and City of Campbell River are reaching out to help keep them healthy.

They’re offering a list of resources that can be printed and shared with those who don’t have a computer or internet access. 

You can find them at SRD.ca/COVID-19 and campbellriver/COVID-19 under ‘Community Resources.’

To request a paper copy by mail to you or someone you know who may need it, you can phone the City call centre at 250-286-4033. It’s open weekdays from 8:30am to 4:00pm.

Among the information being shared includes:

How does COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 is a virus that is spread through liquid droplets. People are infected if those droplets enter their mouth, nose or eyes. 

The virus is spread primarily when sick people cough or sneeze without covering their nose and mouth. Even people with mild symptoms can transmit the virus. 

Best ways to protect your health

• Clean hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds, always before eating and after washroom use.
• Use hand sanitizers frequently when soap and water are unavailable.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Maintain a two-metre distance from other people.
• Avoid public spaces and large groups of people.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that other people might have touched.
• Stay home as much as possible.
• If you are sick or have recently returned from travel outside Canada, you must follow quarantine requirements.

Tips for coping with change

Being quarantined or staying home and away from other people as much as possible can have a significant impact on our emotional health. It’s extra hard for people who are worried about how their age or health makes them more vulnerable if they get sick.

Stay informed

Getting information about COVID-19 from reliable sources helps manage stress and anxiety. If you find that the news or social media make things worse, take a break.

• For the most up-to-date public health information visit the BC Centre for Disease Control at www.bccdc.ca.
• If you have concerns about your health, call HealthLinkBC by dialing 8-1-1
• For non-medical questions, call 1-888-COVID-19 (1-888-268-4319)

Consider delivery services

Many local grocery stores and restaurants are currently offering delivery, to help you get what you need without leaving your home. The Strathcona Regional District is offering funding for delivery services throughout the region. You can find details here www.srd.ca/srddelivers.

Stay connected

The district and city suggest that you use this time to connect with technology such as FaceTime, Skype or Zoom if you have access, or pick up the phone to talk regularly with friends and family.

Seek help

If you are having trouble managing your mental health, please contact your health care provider.

More helpful resources include:

You can access BC 211 Information and a free referral to a full range of community, social and government services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 2-1-1 or visit www.bc211.ca

The KUU-US Crisis Response Service: Provides 24/7 culturally aware crisis support to Indigenous people in B.C. Call 1-800-588-8717 or visit www.kuu-uscrisisline.ca.

Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre: Provides support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide. Call toll-free 1-800-784-2433 or visit www.crisiscentre.bc.ca.