The Impact of Relocation Stress
Starting a new life in Canada can bring about a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. The stress of moving, especially to a different country, can have a significant effect on your mental and physical well-being. The sources of this stress are varied and may include challenges such as securing employment, finding housing, dealing with family issues, processing grief and loss, or adjusting to a new cultural environment. These pressures are common among newcomers, and recognizing them is the first step toward managing them effectively.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the experience of stress among newcomers has been notably high, with many reporting increased levels of anxiety and uncertainty.
Recognizing Signs of Stress
It’s important to pay attention to how stress manifests in your life. You may notice:
- Feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, or helplessness
- Trouble sleeping or changes in your sleep habits
- Difficulty focusing or completing tasks
- Emotional responses tied to past experiences
- Shifts in mood or behavior
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, know that support is available to help you manage the stress of your new environment.
Accessing Support Services for Newcomers
The Newcomers’ Health and Well-Being program, provided by CMHA York Region & South Simcoe, is a valuable resource for those dealing with the challenges of settling in Canada. This program is designed to address the comprehensive health and well-being needs of newcomers, with a focus on cultural sensitivity and language accessibility. It empowers you by building on your strengths and helping you achieve your health and wellness goals. This program is available to residents of York Region and South Simcoe.
Steps to Join the Program
To access this program, you’ll need a valid Unique Client Identifier (UCI) number. You can begin by reaching out via phone at 1-866-345-0183 or by emailing nhwbreferral@cmha-yr.on.ca to request a referral form. The form can be completed on your own or with assistance from a healthcare provider, settlement worker, or community organization.
Once the form is submitted, a clinical therapist will contact you for an initial phone assessment. During this call, you’ll be asked about your health, age, immigration status, and current location to determine if the program is the right fit for you. If it is, the therapist will help you begin scheduling sessions right away.
Therapy and Ongoing Support
Therapy sessions are conducted over the phone, allowing you to participate from your home. You and your therapist will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. If necessary, you’ll also be connected with additional resources, such as trauma therapy through Cedar Centre. The program offers interpretation services to ensure you receive support in your preferred language, and you can choose between individual sessions, group therapy, or a combination of both.
Primary Healthcare Options
For those without a family doctor or with ongoing health issues, the program provides access to a nurse practitioner (NP). The NP can assist with:
- Managing your health through assessments, medication management, and lab work
- Providing education on health conditions like diabetes and answering your questions
- Explaining how to use medications properly and why they are prescribed
- Referring you to general practitioners or specialists in the community based on your health needs
While the NP services are free, the cost of any medications is not covered by the program. For more information, you can contact the NP at 705-309-2335.
Workshops and Additional Services
The Newcomers’ Health and Well-Being program also offers virtual workshops accessible through Zoom. These workshops cover a variety of topics, including:
- Techniques for managing stress
- Coping strategies for grief and loss
- Conflict resolution skills
- Self-care practices
- Supporting family members
- Understanding nutrition
- And more!
In addition to workshops, the program provides:
- Health education on topics like nutrition and sleep
- Counseling in your preferred language
- Support for dealing with past trauma
- Monthly Family Support Groups for those supporting loved ones with stress or mental health challenges. These groups are currently offered in Tamil and Urdu, and online registration is required.
Key Takeaways
- Relocating to Canada can be challenging, leading to stress related to employment, housing, family, and cultural adjustments.
- Signs of stress include anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood changes, which are common among those settling in a new country.
- The Newcomers’ Health and Well-Being program offers comprehensive support tailored to your cultural and language needs, focusing on your overall health.
- Joining the program involves a referral process, followed by personalized therapy sessions conducted over the phone, with access to interpretation services.
- Primary healthcare support is available through nurse practitioners, with free services except for medication costs.
- Workshops and additional resources cover a range of topics, providing ongoing support to help you navigate the challenges of settling in Canada.
This program is designed to help you manage the stress and challenges associated with moving to Canada, offering the tools and support you need to build a healthy and fulfilling life in your new home.
Last modified: February 9, 2025
