Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'm trying to come with solutions or views as to the pandemic recovery is quite the task, especially trying to address mental health issues. Something like this is best left up to the mental health experts who are trained to deal with a person's wellbeing, including mental health. I do know that what we have experienced since the coronavirus showed up on our doorstep is one of total disbelief and concern.

The first thing on people's minds were that of the 1921 Spanish flu, where millions of people were infected and died. People were throwing their arms up in the air, like what is really happening? Travelling to communities and to the south were suddenly shut down. You weren't allowed to visit anyone, especially your own immediate family. Everyone was posting signs on their doors and windows stating no visitors allowed. Border sentry posts were set up at all roads leading in to the territory, and even communities were setting up their own. A total lockdown.

That lockdown presented a whole new set of other issues, whether they be related to health or for one's own release of emotions or the pleasures they missed.

There was more alcohol intake than before due to the lockdown. We now have more drug use than ever before. We now have more cases of domestic violence due to the excesses of alcohol and drugs. This pandemic recovery exercise is not an easy one considering what we have to deal with and not being the authority to address mental health issues, that is best left to the trained.

It is up to the individuals to say enough is enough, and seek mental health counselling. We need to offer more guidance to provide avenues to access the mental health experts in every community. The mental health workers need to be visible and accessible to the community. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.