Alberta’s Chief Physician, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, encouraged anyone who needs support during these uncertain times to reach out. “Talk to a family member, friend, or someone they can be honest with to talk through concerns,” said Hinshaw. As a part of the message, Alberta Health Services launched a text-based program to help provide encouragement and hope to Albertans.  I know many of you don’t feel like you need help, or don’t want to admit it, but anyone can suffer from diminished mental health, especially during these times. 

Text 4 Hope aims to ease feelings of stress or anxiety during these recent challenges associated with COVID-19. Albertans can text COVID19Hope to 393939 to subscribe and they’ll receive daily text messages on healthy thinking or actions to help manage their mood. This is free, thanks to the support of the Mental Health Foundation, the University Hospital Foundation, the Calgary Health Trust, the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. Additionally, anyone struggling with their mental health can contact the Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642 or Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.