The Weight of the World: Coping During Uncertain Times

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Posted On: February 3, 2026

 

On behalf of: The Psychological Health & Safety Team

 

Many in our Island Health community, including staff, clients, patients, and residents, may be struggling with tragic events both globally and locally.
 

Escalating violence, threats of violence, disasters and complex emergencies have far-reaching impacts, affecting each of us differently. We may feel:

  • Worried about our loved ones;
  • Anxious about what's going to happen next;
  • Overwhelmed by the size or number of issues;
  • Disillusioned by the people in positions of power;
  • Guilty for not doing more;
  • Helpless;
     
  • Paralyzed by our feelings.

These are expected reactions.
 

The uncertainty surrounding complex global and political events requires greater compassion and C.A.R.E. for one another, emphasizing patience and understanding for clients, patients, residents and colleagues as they navigate this incredibly challenging time.

If you are feeling affected by events, please reach out to family, friends, your colleagues, spiritual leaders, and mental health professionals. Connecting with others is important to decrease isolation; we are stronger and more resilient together.

​Resources to support you during uncertain times:

Telus Health – Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Services are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and clinicians speak a variety of languages. You may request to speak with a counsellor who has specific lived experience.
 

Access via:

​*If you need assistance with access to Telus Health, please email wellness@islandhealth.ca
 

​Additional resources:

310 Mental Health Support: 310-6789 

  • 310 Mental Health Support is a toll-free number that connects callers to a 24/7 BC crisis line, with no wait or busy signal. Offers emotional support, information on appropriate referral options, and a wide range of support relating to crisis support concerns.

Bereavement Services 
 

​Crisis Support 9-8-8  
 

  • ​Call or text 9-8-8 to access crisis support. At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, you can get support with mental-health struggles, emotional distress and crisis concerns.  

​Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees (VICCIR) 
 

  • ​VICCIR provides mental-health support and counselling services to immigrants and refugees on Vancouver Island. They offer specialized services to those who have experienced trauma and displacement, with a focus on cultural sensitivity and interpreter support. ​
     

For Indigenous Employees

In addition to the resources listed above, self-identified Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) employees may access the following Island Health provisions:

You may also wish to access culturally safe, Indigenous-specific supports from the following external organizations that offer mental health supports and 24/7 Indigenous-specific crisis support: 
 

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Yes, the world feels heavy right now. But that doesn't mean we have to carry it all, all the time, alone; we sustain ourselves when we C.A.R.E. together.​​