Vernon – BC – December 14th, 2020 – The Emily Dahl Foundation — A recent study found more than 40 per cent of nurses in BC struggle with severe depression and the BC Nurses Union is supporting mental health programs with a $10,000 donation to the Canadian Mental Health Association.
In a press release, the BCNU said it believes mental health supports are essential, particularly through the COVID-19 pandemic, and the holiday season. The union has selected two programs that support both the public and our health workers.
A recent joint study sponsored by BCNU and conducted by researchers from the UBC School of Nursing has exposed the psychological impact the pandemic is having on nurses with more than 40 per cent of nurses surveyed reported experiencing severe depression.
“This is a really difficult time for nurses and all health-care workers who are navigating this pandemic,” says BCNU president Christine Sorensen. “The holiday season is a perfect time to contribute to mental health programs for all British Columbians.”
A recent Canadian CMHA study conducted in partnership with UBC indicated 48 per cent of Canadians reported high levels of anxiety/worry because of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as stress (38 per cent), sadness (25 per cent) and depression (24 per cent).
“Nurses across BC are in our hearts as they work alongside other frontline health care staff to safeguard our communities. Their courage and hard work take a toll on their own mental health and CMHA deeply appreciates that nurses are making this generous contribution to everyone’s mental health during this difficult year,” said Jonny Morris, CEO Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division.
“The Emily Dahl Foundation is also deeply concerned with depression in these unusual times. We are here to help. ” The EDF
The Emily Dahl Foundation encourages others to consider the wonderful lyrics to one of the most famous songs in history: “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”, by Bobby McFerrin, released in 1988.
What many may not know it was that was inspired by the work of Indian mystic Meher Baba who often used the expression, “Don’t Worry. Be Happy” when teaching his followers in the West.
Bobby McFerrin is not the only western based artist to uncover the treasure of these teachings that have helped many over the years.
The reason may be quite simply that they relate to everyday life and a lot of the teachings promote compassion, positivity, and love. It connects with our spiritual self, creating a greater understanding.
With mental health and depression being a topic of much concern, we’ve compiled a list of 10 inspired quotes from deep thinkers to help make your days a bit better:
“Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned.” Buddha
“If the problem can be solved why worry? If the problem cannot be solved, worrying will do you no good.” ― Śāntideva
“We all have to live together, so we might as well live together happily.” – Dalai Lama
“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama
“No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.” – Buddha
“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” – Buddha
“We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.” – Buddha
“Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.” ― Dalai Lama
“The true hero is one who conquers his own anger and hatred.” – Dalai Lama
If you’re having a bad moment, hopefully one of these quotes can help you realise that things aren’t always as bad as they seem, and a positive approach goes a long way to producing your desired outcome.
The Emily Dahl Foundation promotes the very simple statement, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” and is thinking deeply about all the amazing Nurses in BC that are working so hard in these tough times.
