ADAM is here to help

The current pandemic is causing all kinds of stresses and losses, including the loss of friends and family due to illness, job losses, business bankruptcy, and home foreclosures. Some people will experience marriage and other relationship breakdowns because of isolation and financial hardship. Many people are experiencing a high level of uncertainty, leading to increasing levels of anxiety. It is anticipated that an estimated 10 per cent of the population will develop mood disorders, anxiety disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder because of the pandemic.

Research suggests that, during the current pandemic, some people have developed a COVID Stress Syndrome, characterized by fear of infection, fear of touching surfaces or objects that might be contaminated with the novel coronavirus, xenophobia (i.e., fear that foreigners might be infected with the virus), COVID-related checking and reassurance-seeking, and COVID-related traumatic stress symptoms (e.g., COVID-related intrusive thoughts and nightmares).

The Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba has been helping Manitobans with anxiety disorders for more than 30 years. We are currently offering a six-week online Anxiety and Worry Program, based upon a program developed by Nicole Carter, MSW, RSW, Director at Valley Centre for Counselling in Dundas, Ont. People who participate in the program connect weekly with a trained, experienced peer support worker who will provide support, assistance and practical suggestions as people work through the material and their anxiety. In addition, people experiencing anxiety are welcome to contact the Brandon ADAM outreach worker, at 204-725-8550 or email at westman@adam.mb.ca for individualized peer support via telephone, email or a digital platform. There are no fees for any of these services.

The Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba (ADAM) was formed in 1986, for and by people suffering with anxiety disorders. We receive expert, ongoing and current advice from specialists in this field.

We are a peer-led organization; our staff has personally experienced and overcome the disabling effects of anxiety and is now sharing that knowledge and hope with others.

For more information, call us at 204-330-6867 or send an email to director@adam.mb.ca

MARY WILLIAMS Executive director

Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba