Mental health discussions are more important than ever. Even as we explore easing the restrictions on social and professional interactions, the reality is life will have to settle into a new sort of normal. And we have all been isolated for weeks.

It’s one thing to acknowledge our fears and anxieties, but it is another thing to try to deal with them head on. In Canada half of all Canadians feel their mental health has worsened during this time. And the picture is the same all over the world.

There are some incredible stories of kindness emerging during this time of isolation. It’s important to try to focus on these positive stories in our communities to try to counter the stress and isolation. Here are a few of those good news stories to pick up your mood:

• Frontlines has shifted all of their programming online to support some of Toronto’s most vulnerable youth. They are also providing meals to families in need within the community.
• I Grow Chicago has been delivering hundreds of care packages for children and elderly community members in Chicago’s South Side. The organization has been supporting the community for the past six years and a group of volunteers has pulled together to continue to do so during COVID-19.
• Celebrities and athletes are donating medical supplies to support the Afro-Carribean community. Bismack Biyombo has donated over $1 Million worth of supplies to support his home country, the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Celebrities and athletes are also donating food to communities in need. Ciara and Russell Wilson donated 1 million meals in Seattle.
• Beyonce’s BeyGOOD donated $6 million to organizations providing mental health initiatives.

While a lot of these initiatives are on a larger scale, you only need to look to your neighbours for the homemade signs supporting essential workers in their windows, those looking out for elderly neighbours and family members, and all of the organizations and individuals who are finding ways to help in any way during this time for inspiration.

If you are having a hard time right now, there are places to go for support. From your community church to local groups, you will find that there are people who are rallying together. SupportBlackCharities also has a number of organizations in the directory that support mental health initiatives. Check them out here.

Do you have a story to tell of someone doing good in your community? We want to hear about it! Send us a quick email or share your story on social media and tag us. Let’s spread these stories of people doing good.