By Angela Hartlin
Along with the rest of the world, Canadians have been experiencing the devastations caused by the COVID-19 crisis. With access to effective treatments for trichotillomania (compulsive hair pulling), excoriation disorder (skin picking disorder), and other body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) being limited throughout the nation pre-pandemic, many people with these mental health conditions are struggling now more than ever.
The Canadian BFRB Support Network (CBSN) is a non-profit organization based in Toronto, Ontario, that aims to reduce the stigma and shame associated with BFRBs in Canada while offering the following resources:
Online Peer Support Program
Whether you have a BFRB or are a parent/loved one who needs answers or advice, become a peer supporter today and CBSN will work to give you a complimentary match.
BFRB Support Group
A safe space for those with body-focused repetitive behaviours and their supports systems to share and learn from one another. (Facebook support group)
Canadian Treatment Providers
A directory of mental health professionals in Canada, many of whom are certified in Clinical Training in CBT-Based Treatment for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors after completing The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours’ Professional Training Institute program.
Provincial Support Groups
Living with a BFRB can be lonely, confusing, and frustrating. A support group can be an outlet for anyone who has questions, needs support, or wants to meet others with BFRBs. Check out CBSN’s database of groups across the country, or learn how to become a leader today!
The following directory provides additional supports for BFRBs or mental health in Canada and across the world:
INTERNATIONAL BFRB SUPPORT
Support Group Directory from Skin Picking Support
BFRBs & COVID
BFRB Support During Social Distancing
Canadian BFRB Support Network
Dermatillomania and COVID
Picking Me Foundation
I Finally Had My Trichotillomania Under Control Before the Pandemic…
Health
For People with Skin Picking Disorder the Pandemic is Especially Triggering
Self
Lockdown is Worsening People’s Dermatillomania
Metro
Pulling Out Your Hair? This Might Be the Cause
New York Times
(COVID-19): How not to touch your face from the experts
TLC Foundation for BFRBs, Baby Center News & Analysis
CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS & COVID
Coping with COVID-19
Anxiety Canada
Caring for your Mental Health during COVID-19
Mood Disorders Society of Canada
Mental Health Resources During the COVID Outbreak
Youth Mental Health Canada
COVID-19 Resources
Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health
COVID-19 Resources
Crisis Services Canada
ADDITIONAL CANADIAN RESOURCES
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Canadian Mental Health Association
Schizophrenia Society of Canada
Black Mental Health Canada Inc.
Re:searching for LGBTQ2S+ Health
Mental Health Literacy (Teens)
The Lifeline Canada Foundation
If you are struggling with your mental health, reach out to a trusted family member, friend, therapist, forum, or organization for emotional support. If you are in immediate distress, please call the Canada Suicide Prevention Service‘s 24/7 hotline at 833-456-4566 or visit your local emergency room. Always remember that you are not alone during these difficult times.
Sign up for CBSN’s monthly Virtual Support Groups newsletter.
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Angela Hartlin is a Canadian mental health advocate. She’s author of the book FOREVER MARKED: A Dermatillomania Diary and the subject of the documentary Scars of Shame. She also runs skinpickingsupport.com.