Do you have a knack for administration and dentistry? Do you love caring for patients and have strong communication skills? Do you wish to become part of the medical community? Are you looking to elevate your medical career in just 12 months*? And do you want to achieve greater financial freedom? Then Trillium College’s Dental Assistant Program is for you.

In today’s competitive job market, finding a stable and rewarding career can be challenging. For those interested in the healthcare field, particularly in dentistry, Trillium College’s Dental Assistant program offers an excellent opportunity to enter a high-demand profession with a bright future.

Growing Demand for Dental Assistants

According to Lynn Tomkins, former President (2022-23) of the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), Canada is facing a shortage of approximately 5000 dental assistants, impacting dental practices nationwide.A report by Risio Dental highlights that “many dentists are struggling to find the skilled professionals they need to provide quality care to their patients.” This shortage underscores the critical need for trained dental assistants who can support dental teams and ensure smooth operations within dental practices.

The Government of Canada’s Job Bank reports that employment prospects for dental assistants in Ontario are expected to remain good over the next few years. This demand is driven by several factors, including an aging population requiring more dental services and advancements in dental technology that necessitate skilled support staff.

What do Dental Assistants do?

What does a typical day look like for a dental assistant? Dental assistants play a vital role in patient care and office management. Their tasks include preparing patients for treatments, assisting dentists during procedures, sterilizing instruments, taking X-rays, and maintaining patient records. This dynamic role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and a compassionate approach to patient care.

Dental Assistant Program in 12 months*

Are you someone who doesn’t want to spend years pursuing a dental program? Are you looking for a place that will help you develop practical dental skills quickly? At Trillium College, our Dental Assistant program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to excel in this rewarding field within a short period

Our comprehensive curriculum covers essential topics such as dental sciences, radiography, chairside assisting, and office administration. It’s designed to meet the standards for the Healing Arts Radiation Protection (HARP) certificate and is fully approved by the National Dental Assisting Examination Board (NDAEB).

Additionally, our program includes practical training opportunities to ensure you gain real-world experience before entering the workforce. Graduates of our program are well-equipped to excel in the NDAEB exams, paving the way for successful careers as Dental Assistants.

Our experienced instructors are dedicated to your success, providing personalized guidance and support throughout your studies. We understand the importance of staying current with industry trends and standards, so our program continually evolves to meet the changing needs of the dental profession.

Join Trillium College and take the first step towards becoming an essential dental team member. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how you can enroll. Your future in dental assisting awaits!

For more information and to apply, visit our website www.trilliumcollege.ca, or contact our admissions office. Let’s shape a healthier future together, one smile at a time!

At Trillium College, we believe in the power of hands-on learning and real-world experience. That’s why we’re proud to offer our students and clients the opportunity to experience the ultimate in relaxation and wellness at our Massage Therapy Student Clinic, or the “Spa@Trillium”. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many benefits of our student clinic for both students and clients alike.

Hands-On Learning for Students

For students enrolled in our massage therapy program, our student clinic provides invaluable hands-on learning opportunities. Here, students have the chance to apply the skills and techniques they’ve learned in the classroom in a real-world setting under the guidance of experienced instructors. This hands-on experience not only reinforces classroom learning but also helps students build confidence and proficiency in their craft.

Professional Development

Earning hours in the student clinic allows students to gain valuable professional experience that can help jumpstart their careers after graduation. By interacting with clients, managing appointments, and providing therapeutic treatments, students develop essential skills in client communication, time management, and customer service – all of which are critical for success in the field of massage therapy.

Affordable and Accessible Services for Clients

For clients, the Spa@Trillium offers affordable and accessible massage therapy services performed by skilled students under the supervision of licensed professionals. Whether you’re in need of a therapeutic  Swedish massage, a targeted deep tissue treatment, or just a relaxing treatment our spa has something for everyone. Plus, by choosing the Spa@Trillium, clients not only receive top-notch treatments at a fraction of the cost but also play a crucial role in supporting the education and professional development of future massage therapists.

Community Impact

By offering affordable massage therapy services to the public, the student massage clinic also has a positive impact on the community. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare and wellness services, and our student clinic helps make that a reality by providing affordable treatments to those who may not otherwise be able to afford them.

All this to say, our massage therapy student clinic is a win-win for both students and clients! From hands-on learning and professional development opportunities for students to affordable and accessible services for clients, our clinic offers something for everyone. So why wait? Book your appointment today and experience the benefits of our student clinic for yourself.

Today, we’re diving into the world of hairstyling at Trillium College, where the scissors are sharp, the creativity flows, and the spotlight is on the incredible instructor, Leanne Gutheinz, a hairstyling maven with a whopping 19 years of experience in the industry.

The Mane Maestro: Leanne Gutheinz

Meet Leanne, the wizard behind the curtain of Trillium College’s hairstyling program in Kingston. With a journey that started as a junior stylist and eventually managing 13 talented stylists at a salon/spa, Leanne brings a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom. But that’s not all – she even ran a salon from the cozy confines of her own home. Talk about a boss move!

The Classroom Chronicles

Picture this: a classroom that’s not just about learning the art of hairstyling but also about having a blast while doing it. Leanne Gutheinz’s classroom is the place to be, where creativity knows no bounds, and the atmosphere is as vibrant as the colors in a stylist’s palette.

Leanne’s mantra is simple: education doesn’t have to be dull. In her classroom, you’ll find an environment that fosters creativity, encourages curiosity, and promotes a healthy dose of laughter. After all, who said learning can’t be fun?

A Fun-loving Guide on Your Hairstyling Adventure

“I consider my students an extension of my passions, skills, and traits and take their education very seriously! However, we love having a little (or a lot) of fun too!” says Leanne, and she means every word. In her classroom, learning isn’t just about techniques and theory; it’s about enjoying the process.

Leanne Gutheinz’s classroom is a lively space where creativity meets professionalism, where students are not just learners but collaborators in the art of hairstyling. So, if you’re thinking about embarking on a hairstyling journey, why not make it a fun one at Trillium College with Leanne Gutheinz as your guide?

In the world of hairstyling, where passion meets precision, Leanne Gutheinz is your go-to guru for an education that’s as vibrant as the hairstyles she creates. Cheers to creativity, education, and a whole lot of fun in the world of hairstyling at Trillium College!

If you have a passion for skincare, beauty, creativity and helping people feel their best, becoming an esthetician or spa operator can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. Estheticians play a vital role in providing personalized skincare treatments, offering relaxation and rejuvenation, and helping clients achieve their desired look. 

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in esthetics, it’s important to consider enrolling in a reputable program like the Esthetics and Spa Operations program at Trillium College. This will provide you with the necessary education and hands-on training to excel in the field.

Embarking on a career in esthetics can be a fulfilling and rewarding choice for several reasons. Choosing the right program is important and there are many compelling reasons to choose Trillium College:

Growing Industry: The beauty and wellness industry is constantly expanding, with a steady demand for skilled estheticians. As people increasingly prioritize self-care and well-being, the need for properly trained Estheticians continues to rise.  Trillium College updates their curriculum so they can provide the training required so that graduates are learning not only the basics but current trends in the industry.

Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates of the Esthetics and Spa Operations program can pursue a wide range of career paths. They may work in spas, salons, wellness centers, resorts, medical clinics, or even as independent entrepreneurs offering mobile or home-based services.

Creativity and Artistic Expression: Our experienced faculty will educate students in Esthetics as an art form that allows practitioners to express their creativity through various treatments, including skincare routines, lash extensions and nail design. Students will learn to see each appointment as an opportunity to help clients feel confident and beautiful.

Positive Impact on Clients: Trillium College Esthetics students learn that estheticians play a significant role in enhancing clients’ well-being and self-esteem. Providing relaxation, rejuvenation, and personalized skincare solutions can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: Depending on where you work, a career in esthetics can offer flexible scheduling options. This can be particularly appealing for individuals seeking a career that allows for work-life balance.

Continuous Learning and Professional Growth: The field of esthetics is dynamic, with new techniques, products, and technologies regularly emerging. Ongoing education and professional development opportunities can keep estheticians at the forefront of their field.

Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Trillium College’s program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to start their own esthetics businesses. This can be an exciting prospect for those who want to be their own boss and set their own schedules.

Job Security and Stability: As long as people seek relaxation and beauty treatments, there will be a demand for skilled estheticians. This can provide a level of job security, especially for dedicated and well-trained professionals.

The Esthetic and Spa Operations program trains you on how to work with a variety of clients. You’ll perform facials, anti-aging skin treatments, body waxing, manicures, and pedicures. You’ll also learn the theory behind hot new industry treatments like – microdermabrasion, laser hair removal, and laser skin treatment. Plus, our program teaches salon and spa administration, so you’ll be prepared to take on management roles in the beauty industry.

By enrolling in the Esthetics and Spa Operations program at Trillium College, you will benefit by graduating from a specialized education that prepares you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this dynamic and growing field. Trillium College’s program offers a well-rounded curriculum, experienced faculty, and valuable industry connections that can set you up for success in your esthetics career.

Tooth be told, embarking on a career in the dental field is not only rewarding but also offers a stable and promising future! The best way to take part in this exciting profession is through Trillium College’s Dental Assistant Program. Let’s explore the myriad benefits of enrolling in this program, as well as the abundant job opportunities awaiting graduates.

Comprehensive Curriculum:

Trillium College’s Dental Assistant Program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience. From dental radiography techniques to chairside assisting, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles.

Experienced Faculty:

The program is led by a team of experienced instructors who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world insights to the classroom. Their guidance ensures that students receive top-notch education and are well-prepared for their future careers.

State-of-the-Art Facilities:

Trillium College prides itself on its modern facilities, which are equipped with cutting-edge dental equipment and technology. This provides students with a realistic and immersive learning environment, mirroring what they will encounter in the field.

Hands-On Clinical Experience:

Practical training is a cornerstone of the Dental Assistant Program. Students have the opportunity to work in a simulated dental clinic, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of skilled instructors. This practical exposure helps build confidence and proficiency in dental procedures.

Certification and Licensing Preparation:

Our curriculum provides training that meets the requirements of the Healing Arts Radiation Protection (HARP) certificate and is also approved and recognized by the National Dental Assisting Examination Board (NDAEB). Graduates of the program are well-prepared to take the National Dental Assisting Examination Board (NDAEB) examination, 

Job Opportunities for Dental Assistants:

Dental assistants are the tooth fairy’s right-hand wo(man)! The demand for dental assistants is on the rise, making it a profession with excellent job prospects. With an aging population and increased awareness of oral health, dental practices require skilled assistants to support their operations.

Diverse Work Settings:

Dental assistants have the flexibility to work in various settings, including private dental offices, clinics, hospitals, and specialty practices such as orthodontics or oral surgery. Areas of focus also include general dentistry, community dentistry, specialty dentistry and dental sales. This diversity allows for a wide range of career paths and opportunities for specialization.

Competitive Salaries and Benefits:

They know the tooth, the whole tooth, and nothing but the tooth! Dental assistants enjoy competitive salaries, which vary based on factors like location, experience, and specialty. Additionally, many employers offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. According to Indeed.ca, the median annual salary of a Level 2 Dental Assistant is 72.5k!

Career Advancement:

Dental assistants are ‘crown’ed champions of oral health! The dental field offers opportunities for career growth. With experience and additional certifications, dental assistants can advance into roles like office managers, dental hygienists, or even pursue further education to become dentists.

Trillium College’s Dental Assistant Program not only equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge but also opens doors to a world of opportunities in the dental field. With a combination of expert instruction, and hands-on experience, graduates are well-prepared to embark on a fulfilling career as dental assistants. 

Become an expert at filling in the gaps! Don’t miss out on this chance to join a profession that promises stability, growth, and personal satisfaction. Enroll in Trillium College’s Dental Assistant Program today!

“I hate my job”.

“I need a career change”.

“I have no time to go back to school to focus on what I really want to do”.

Does this sound like you?  Are you looking for a change in your career but have no time to squeeze it in?

If you’ve said “yes” to any of the above, Trillium College has some exciting news to share.

Starting in January 2022, evening classes will begin for our Graduate Programs along with Business Management, Supply Chain Management & Logistics and Video Game Design. 

These programs will still be offered in the daytime, but to make them more accessible for working people and families, we have decided to offer them in the evenings too.

Gone are the days of being stuck forever in a job you don’t enjoy or feeling trapped at the bottom of the corporate ladder.  With Trillium College, you can literally keep up with your day job and providing for your family while working towards your new career in the evenings.

Our programs will run Monday to Friday from 6-10pm, all online and no weekends; which means that it is now within your grasp to make the changes you want to make and level up you career while still being able to work full-time or juggle your daily responsibilities.

Imagine being able to enjoy dinner with your family and then changing into your comfy clothes to take the first step to a brand new future, all from the comforts of your home. 

Our days are full; an income is a necessity; being there for your family is a priority but at the end of the day, what about you?

So, if you’ve dreamed about making a career change, or need to upgrade your skills to get that promotion, Trillium College is here to help.

Evening classes are filling up quickly, so contact one of our Career Coaches to find out more.

Life as a Pharmacy Assistant

Teresa Kelly has worked as a Pharmacy Assistant for 20 years.  Her first job came after finding an ad in the newspaper and applying for it.  She has jumped around to three pharmacies during that time, but she has never looked back.  

“I love this job,” she proudly laughs.  “I love my patients, I love who I work with and I just love being able to really get to know all of the people who come in on a personal level.”

Teresa has now earned a 9-5 position and an income of $30/hr.  

Her main focus is to help people.  

“People don’t come into the pharmacy when they are feeling well,” Teresa said, “They are here because they aren’t feeling great so you need to be a people person and a bit compassionate.”

Now it’s funny because I always assumed the Pharmacist ran the show; that was until I saw Teresa Kelly and her colleagues in action.

They do pretty much everything to make the Pharmacy operate.  “We are the Pharmacist’s sidekick,” Teresa joked, “we are like their right-hand man.”

Their daily tasks include everything from collecting the faxes that come in from the doctors to stocking and putting out all of the supplies, to making sure that the right inventory is coming in to fulfill prescriptions, to answering phones and patient questions, to following up with doctor offices about prescription renewals and dealing with insurance.  

I remember going into the Pharmacy about a month ago to fulfill a prescription and coming home all distraught because the prescription I had been given was NOT the one my doctor had ordered. I angrily picked up my phone to call the Pharmacy and give them a piece of my mind, but I was quickly talked off the ledge by the Pharmacy Assistant who informed me that I was given a generic drug.  

“A generic drug?”, I questioned.  “Why would I want a generic drug when that is not what my doctor prescribed?”

In a very calm voice, the Pharmacy Assistant on the other end informed me that a generic drug is a copy of a brand name drug. The generic drug is pharmaceutically equivalent to the brand name drug: it contains the identical medicinal ingredients, in the same amounts and in a similar dosage form. 

There may be many generic versions of the same brand name drug, and these are usually available at a lower cost.

Turns out they saved me $60 to take a drug that was exactly the same.

It was like carrying a Gucci knock-off bag and no one being the wiser!  

From that moment on I knew that my Pharmacy Assistant was watching out for my family and I. 

“We do have a lot of protocols in place,” Teresa emphasized, “as with all of the drugs and people’s health we need to have a lot of privacy and confidentiality in place.  We need to make sure we don’t breach anything as we are dealing with people’s very personal information and we know all about their health history.”

Teresa emphasized that with more and more drugs coming into the market there are always jobs available. 

“It is a very high demand job and if you are a good (pharmacy) assistant you can get a job anywhere,” she said.

The key to being a good assistant is to stick around.  This industry sees a lot of students coming in and out, so if you plan to stick around and learn a lot, then you will have great longevity in this field and never be in need of a position.

Teresa considers the job to be a ‘lifelong learning experience’.  Every day is different as you are always dealing with different patients and different ailments.  

Teresa is thrilled that she answered that newspaper ad 20 years ago and encourages anyone who likes to help people, is curious about how medications work and is detail oriented to give it a try.

“It’s a great job.  You learn so much every single day and after twenty years, I still have a fascination for how drugs work.”

Check out our Pharmacy Assistant program today!

How to Shine as a Personal Support Worker

Have you ever considered becoming a personal support worker?  I have, and after much reading and research, this is what I have learned, and I would love to share how to shine as a PSW with you…

A career in Personal Support Work looks both exciting and rewarding. No two days at work will ever be the same; I love that! Despite what seems like possible challenges that I could face in my job, it looks like an extremely fulfilling option where you can shine with potential. PSWs make a world of difference in the lives of their clients each day by providing them with the support they need. A helping hand, emotional support, and some company. Many clients look to their PSW’s for human interaction and for someone to chat with.

I believe that being a PSW is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, there would need to be a lot of effort to find the right balance in this career. However, the people with huge hearts, extraordinary patience and empathy are incredibly successful at becoming certified Personal Support Workers and find happiness and fulfillment from this rewarding career. Many PSWs build lasting relationships with clients and feel a sense of accomplishment in their role. So, how does someone shine in a career as a PSW?

Shine by building meaningful connections with clients.

The key to being a successful PSW is by building professional but also empathetic relationships with clients. Paying attention to a client’s body language, visual, verbal, and non-verbal cues is very important. It will allow you to know if their care plan is meeting their needs. Some clients experience loneliness, especially in long-term or end of life care. You can shine by being a source of companionship and conversation.

Stay positive.

Clients who are around a positive influence are more likely to think positively. Positive thinking has been linked to health benefits such as decreased stress, lowered depression, and an overall better physical and mental well-being. Adjusting your attitude and taking responsibility for how you react in situations can benefit the client’s health (and your own).

Shine by taking time for yourself.

Are you feeling exhausted, stressed, or drained? Being a PSW is a demanding career that requires physical and mental strength and a growth mindset. Always exercising this strength can deplete your energy stores. Remembering to manage yourself and taking the time to rest and refresh, will allow you to perform your job more effectively and continue to shine.

Treat everyone with respect.

Each client has their own story and deserves to be treated with respect. Despite being in a vulnerable position, clients are human beings who have thoughts, feelings, dreams, and aspirations. Respecting your client will ensure client-centred care and mutual respect.

I know I am ready to shine and become a front line hero in a fulfilling career as a Personal Support Worker, are you? Join an industry that is in high demand and start caring and supporting those who need it most. As a graduate of Trillium College’s PSW program, you may find employment in a variety of settings, including long-term care facilities, home care agencies, senior citizens’ recreation centers, hospitals, group homes, and respite and palliative care centers. We are thankful for Personal Support Workers who make a difference! Fill out the form below and commit to your new career today!

A Day in The Life of a Medical Office Assistant

Our Medical Office Assistant diploma program prepares students for a career in medical administration. In light of the COVID-19 outbreak , the medical field is experiencing rapid growth, creating demand for a huge range of careers in medical administration.

Our graduates find well-paying jobs in offices, clinics, and hospitals as:

Administrative assistants

Office managers

Medical transcriptionists

Medical billing clerks

Unit/ward clerks

Patient registration clerks

But what does a typical day in the life of a medical office assistant look like? Given the scope of job options, there are many possibilities. Our example graduate, Laura, can fill in the details of what an average workday for her looks like. Although some of the details might change, any job as a medical office assistant will include similar tasks and responsibilities.

A Day in the Life: Laura Smith, Clinic Office Manager

Laura is a 29-year-old graduate who works full-time as Dr. Greene’s office manager. Dr. Greene is a busy cardiologist who splits her time between her private office, where Laura has worked for three years, and the local hospital. Laura’s role is to care for all clerical aspects of Dr. Greene’s practice, while Dr. Greene’s nurse looks after clinical aspects.

8:00 am: Laura arrives at the office, ahead of other staff. She unlocks the door, turns off the alarm and turns on all the computers and tablets. She records a new voicemail stating today’s availability. Laura listens to voicemail messages and checks office email, taking note of any cancellations or urgent messages. She calls patients from her waiting list to fill any same-day cancellation slots.

8:30 am: Greets Doctor Greene and the office nurse as they arrive, updating them on the day’s schedule and any urgent patient messages.

9:00 am: Finally, Laura greets the first patient as he arrives. She confirms his demographics and OHIP information is up-to-date in medical record software. After discovering the patient had recent blood work done that is not on his file, she calls the lab to have it sent over immediately before the doctor sees him.

9:30 am: Then Laura continues registering patients as they arrive. In between patient arrivals, she processes all documents that have arrived since the last work day. She files lab work electronically in patients’ electronic medical records, prints off prescription renewals for the doctor to sign, and sets aside referral requests to deal with later in the day.

10:00 am: The phone is ringing off the hook. Calls include ones from a pharmacist who needs a Limited Use code for a prescription the doctor just sent in, an Emergency Room nurse who is caring for one of Dr. Greene’s patients, and another doctor who wants to speak with Dr. Greene about a mutual patient.

11:00 am: Laura registers a first-time patient and creates electronic medical record for her. She helps the patient fill out basic paperwork and enter her demographics and allergies into her medical record. The new patient forgot her lengthy list of medications at home, so Laura calls her pharmacy to get a list sent over right away for the doctor’s review.

12:00 pm: Lunchtime.

12:30 pm: Next, Laura calls tomorrow’s patients to remind them of their appointments. She leaves messages for any who do not answer, reminding them to bring their health card and list of medications.

1:30 pm: Now it’s time to processes referrals. Laura sorts referrals by urgency, according to office guidelines. She finds appointments for each patient, sending their appointment times and instructions to their referring doctor.

2:30 pm: After finding out that Dr. Greene is attending a conference next Friday that she forgot to mention, Laura begins rescheduling all of that day’s patients. There are few openings in the doctor’s schedule, so this task requires patience and problem-solving.

3:30 pm: Unfortunately a patient arrives without an appointment, explaining that he urgently needs to see the doctor. After asking the patient questions and discussing the situation discreetly with the office nurse, Laura adds him to the day’s schedule.

4:30 pm: However, although the patients should all be gone by now, there are still a few patients to be seen. The doctor is running overtime and patients are restless in the waiting room. Laura stays until all patients are seen, making their follow-up appointments and booking any tests the doctor ordered for them.

5:30 pm: After recording a new voicemail stating that the office is now closed and checking the office e-mail one last time, Laura finishes her workday by turning off the computers and lights, setting the alarm and locking the door.

After reading what a typical day for Laura looks like, it’s clear that working as a medical office assistant is a demanding profession that requires:

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Excellent people skills

A career as a medical office assistant can be immensely rewarding. Medical office assistants act as a liaison between patients who need help and the practitioners who can offer that help. They assist people in their most vulnerable moments and help them navigate the healthcare system. Medical office assistants often make the difference between a patient falling through the cracks or getting the help they need, when they need it.

If you love people, enjoy being organized, and want to make a difference, then a career as a medical office assistant might be the perfect fit for you!

How to React During A Time of Crisis – COVID-19

The current global COVID-19 pandemic is a rather peculiar and unique situation for students and people worldwide. There are not too many instances in life where we are asked to slow down and stay in. For many of us over the last few weeks, we went from being busy humans on a schedule to being home-bound with minimal to no human interaction. During a crisis, things are out of our control and can change without any warning and we must adjust accordingly. These are uncertain times. What kind of effect can this have on us? Often without a sense of control, we naturally tend to panic, stress, and worry, but it is completely normal.

Health experts recommend these strategies to react appropriately during a time of crisis:

Stay informed during a crisis

Use reliable sources such as official health and government websites to stay informed with what is happening in your local community. Contradictory information is always being circulated on social media and social media is certainly not an accurate source for COVID-19 updates. While it is important to stay up to date with news, remember to keep it at a limit. Overloading with negative information can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Stay informed when necessary and stay calm.

Focus on yourself and your health

Feel your feelings and be aware of them. Vocalize and explain your feelings to someone you trust, write them down, or even express them through activities. Mental health awareness is key in times of crisis. Focus on your health by being attentive and taking necessary precautions. Practice healthy habits and limit your contact with stress-inducing factors. There are many great practices for mental health available online.

Create a plan with strategy

One of the positive outcomes of the current COVID-19 pandemic is the increased time we have. Use this time to create a plan if you haven’t yet! Keep yourself occupied by writing down tasks, activities, jobs, exercises, and things you generally enjoy doing, then do it. Take the time to explore a hobby that you have always wanted to try, or simply enjoy the outdoors with attention to social distancing. Plan what you will do now and then make an action plan of what the future will hold after we overcome the pandemic. Focus on “the now” and worry about this rest when the time comes.

Take action when necessary

Listen to your body if you think you are not feeling well both physically and mentally. Be aware of the COVID-19 symptoms and monitor yourself accordingly. Seeking help if symptoms occur is necessary. The same is necessary if you are feeling mentally unwell or express feelings of hopelessness.

Here are some signs you might benefit from extra help and support:

• You can’t think about anything other than coronavirus or the COVID-19 illness
• Your anxiety interferes in your daily life—for example, you have a hard time doing daily tasks
• You isolate yourself from others when it isn’t necessary
• Feeling hopeless or angry about the situation
• Having a hard time eating or sleeping well
• Experiencing physical symptoms like constant headaches or stomach pains

We recognize this can be a stressful time and it’s normal to feel worried and anxious. It’s also very common for people to display great resilience during times of crisis! After all, pressure is how diamonds are made. This is a time to come together as a society and stay close emotionally if not physically. As the pandemic continues to unfold, let’s act responsibly and reach out when we need support.