Today@Dal

These past few months have been challenging for all faculty and staff, as many work remotely and others provide essential services on campus. In addition to managing childcare, homeschooling and feelings of isolation and stress, some members of our community may also struggle with mental health and safety concerns.

Many experts, including Dr. Simon Sherry, a professor in Dalhousie’s department of psychology, have opined on the psychological impacts of self-isolation. Dr. Sherry recently expressed concern about the psychological impacts that COVID-19 is having on Nova Scotians. He issued a media release last week about the possibility of a ‘mental health pandemic’ and a potential increase in suicide rates. Read the Halifax Examiner article.

Employees’ well-being, including mental health, is a priority at Dalhousie. As we begin to plan for a partial return to campus in July, we will be prioritizing employee mental health and other employee safety concerns. If you or one of your team members requires an accommodation that would permit a return to work on campus in July, please contact Órla McDevitt, Director, Accessible Employment, Human Resources at orla.mcdevitt@dal.ca.

Resources and supports are available to employees, with a dedicated Mental Health page on the Remote Working site, including how to cope with high-risk situations including domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic events. The university’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) is available to employees at 1-800-387-4765 or online. The Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or someone concerned about them. Call 1-888-429-8167.