Self-Care is Healthcare: Mercy Ships Canada Joins the Mental Health Conversation

As the pandemic endures, Mercy Ships Canada recognizes that small acts can make a big difference, including conversations about mental health and self-care. Lockdowns, increased restrictions, the challenges of working from home and online learning, and the reality of not being able to connect face-to-face with family and friends are all taking a toll on us. There is an increased need for us to pay closer attention to how we are feeling and pursue helpful avenues of care.

As an organization committed to strengthening healthcare systems overseas, Mercy Ships Canada also realizes the need to strengthen self-care at home. We acknowledge the efforts of several organizations in recent years to increase the level of meaningful conversation around mental health, as well as express our desire to join these important efforts today and all year round. Mercy Ships Canada also wishes to thank the Chamber of Commerce for recently expanding their plan to provide additional mental health resources to support their clients, including our staff.

Mercy Ships Canada continues to stand in solidarity with countless seafarers, including our volunteer crew aboard the Africa Mercy, who find themselves unable to obtain shore leave in this season and are navigating the many mental health struggles that result.