Alberta Health Services is encouraging Albertans to be proactive about managing their stress.

The unwelcome changes and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 have people feeling especially anxious these days. Whether it be health concerns, a loss of income, interruption in employment or an overall change in routine, everyone has had to adjust in some way.

In an effort to help Albertans find ways to cope with the stress surrounding COVID-19, AHS has launched a free online workshop.

The workshop is entitled ‘Transform Your Stress: The Resilience Advantage — Strategies for Managing Stress in Challenging Times.’ It aims to provide participants with tools to manage increased pressure and anxiety brought on by the pandemic.

Led by certified professionals, the workshop will cover a wide range of topics including:

  • Identifying warning signs of stress.
  • Discussing the stress response.
  • Reviewing how emotions impact the body, brain and overall health.
  • Helping participants make an action plan to address their own stress.
  • Discussing how resilience can be enhanced through regular use of breathing tools.
  • Demonstrating two practical, stress-relieving breathing techniques.

Anyone looking for coping strategies, help in managing their stress levels or finding tools to help their families can register online. The workshop will take place on three different days: May 26, 27 and June 3.

Alberta Health Services also launched a free text-based program back in March called "Text 4 Hope." Albertans can text COVID19Hope to 393939 to subscribe, and in return, they'll receive daily text messages to help with mental wellbeing.