Extended stay-at-home orders, lockdowns, isolation, and uncertainty are all themes that Torontonians have been acquainted with at one point or another throughout last year.
It is safe to declare that what once was a temporary adjustment, has now manifested as a new, alarming reality. COVID-19 revealed the admirable capacity of communities, organizations, and humanity to band together for a cause. However, behind the breastplates and shields of the forbearance, resilience, and willpower Downsview residents convey, lie wounds so deep that no mere virus or vaccination can hurt nor help. Community members wait in agony for this antidote.
Mental Health increasingly becomes a grave concern as the nuances of the pandemic remain.
The quadmester system that was introduced for the first time this school year divides the regular high school course load into 4 semesters; this condenses 5-6 month-long, content-heavy courses into simply two months.
The adverse mental health effects of this system that has taken place on Downsview youth is of utmost importance to recognize in order to help tackle it.
Several students in the TDSB claim that this system is draining and strips them of the chance to properly learn. Additionally, many content-heavy courses are extremely difficult to keep up with, along with the weekly tests and assignments that seem to have no end.
Students are already missing out on the social aspect of high school, which is an outlet for many. Without this and a lack of access to proper support, poor mental health is not only a consequence, but is bound to worsen as a direct result.
Feelings of loneliness, anger, sadness, frustration, and more are completely normal responses to these kinds of situations. However, it is important to remember that you are NOT ever alone and that there are a multitude of resources available.
1. Spend time in nature and parks
2. Exercise
3. Apply your passion and creative instinct to impact the world.
Make sure to visit this link (https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-protect-yourself-others/covid-19-mental-health-resources/) to find some great organizations that are here for your mental wellness and prosperity.