What if I have Trouble Coping?

Coping is the process of managing stressful circumstances. Moving to a new country can be very stressful. You may experience new challenges, and life may feel overwhelming at times. If you are having trouble getting used to life in Canada, know that this is common, and you are not alone. In this section, you can learn about some of the resources and options available to help you cope:

• Talk to the settlement counsellors at the New Canadians Centre. They know the difficulties newcomers may experience and can direct you to appropriate services.
• Families and students can also connect with a Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) counsellor. They can meet you at schools to help with any settlement needs and concerns you may have. 
• International students at Fleming College can seek help with orientation, immigration, medical and other needs. The College also offers counselling services to help students resolve different concerns.
• Trent University offers many resources to help international students feel at home in Peterborough. The University’s Counselling Centre also offers students individual and group therapy workshops.
• Four Counties Crisis provides 24/7 toll-free telephone crisis intervention, counselling and access to community resources.
• Settlement.Org provides an introduction to the many types of support services available in Canada.
• Take time to enjoy your new life in Canada. Getting involved in the community will allow you to meet new people. It will include some fun in your day and help ease some of the feelings of loneliness you may be experiencing.

There are many multicultural groups and organizations in Peterborough. Information on existing groups and a guide on how to form your own group can be found at the New Canadians Centre.

Settlement.org hosts a discussion forum specific to settlement in Ontario.

Coping with some challenges takes time. Some may be beyond your control. But paying attention to the different areas that make up your individual health can help you cope with day-to-day life.

Body

Eating a balanced diet helps you look and feel good and ensures that your mind and body are fuelled to function at their best. Health Canada has developed Canada’s Food Guide (translated into 11 languages) to help you and your family make healthy choices. For a list of local grocery stores, farmers’ markets, affordable food programs, and food backs in Peterborough, please visit Food and Shopping.

Being physically active is as important as proper nourishment. Visit Health Canada’s page for tips and information to help build physical activity into a healthy lifestyle. For example, try cycling, walking, or jogging on the many Peterborough trails.  You can also get individual or family memberships at various fitness clubs in Peterborough.

Mind

As a newcomer to Canada, you have a wealth of knowledge and skills. Taking advantage of personal and professional development opportunities is important to continue developing a strong sense of self and purpose.

Nourish your mind by choosing from courses and workshops offered by the New Canadians Centre, the Peterborough Public Library, Trent University, or Fleming College. Pay attention to local news and events that offer various opportunities to share your knowledge and skills with your new community, learn something new, and expand your social network.

Emotions

Staying positive and keeping your self-esteem high is important for emotional wellness. Surround yourself with supportive people. Volunteer for something you are passionate about. Share your knowledge and experience with others.

The stress of migration, adaptation, trauma and loss may have huge and ongoing effects on your  mental health. Some days may be good, and some days may be difficult – coping with change isn’t always easy, and having these feelings is normal. There are resources available to help you. Alone in Canada: 21 Ways to Make it Better is a helpful pamphlet available through the Settlement.org website. Programs like the Opening Doors Project recognize this and work to strengthen, foster and cultivate healthier communities in Ontario. 211Ontario.ca can direct you to mental health services in Peterborough. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) provides valuable information and resources. Talk Now Walk-In Clinic – Kinark is joining Peterborough Youth Services to offer an in-person single-session walk-in clinic for children, youth and their families. The New Canadians Centre can also help you with any such challenges.

Relationships and Society

Different people have different experiences settling into a new country. Many people go through the four common stages of adapting to a new culture, often called “Culture Shock”. Culture Shock is not a medical condition and is a normal part of the immigration process. It is temporary, and, as a newcomer, there are things you can do to integrate and adjust to the new culture.

It is important to stay connected with friends and family back home. It is essential that you also take part in your new community and build a support network here. Participate in community events and programs or volunteer your time and skills to a worthy cause. Soon you will find that Peterborough is a welcoming community and will begin to feel more at home.