Mental health a concern as smoke chokes provinces

Smoke from hundreds of wildfires burning around B.C. could be harming more than just your physical well-being, health experts say. It may also lead to poor mental health.

The Canadian Mental Health Association is urging affected residents to practise self-care and good mental wellness during this prolonged stretch of poor air quality. That may include getting lots of rest, exercising indoors, spending more time with friends, and speaking to a professional if the anxiety persists more than a couple of weeks.

Maya Russell of the Canadian Mental Health Association, said the smoke is causing anxiety about climate change for many residents.

“Climate change is abstract, but when you can see it in the form of pollution and smoke, you are taking something that felt far away and bringing it right up close,” she said.

Breathing can be a tool to manage anxiety, but if people are scared about what they are breathing in, that could cause them to become even more anxious, she said.

Russell says there are ways to mitigate the anxiety. First, remind yourself the smoke is temporary.

Another tip is to practise mindfulness so you understand why you feel anxious. If the fear becomes overwhelming, try making small changes to feel more in control.

When people stay indoors because of the air, they can become isolated, so she advised hanging out with friends.