Therapy for Those Affected by COVID-19
Shelter-in-place orders, social-distancing, business closures and social gathering cancellations throughout New Jersey and the world are just a few of the things we are facing today. Coronavirus has completely changed our world, leaving some of us completely isolated, without jobs or juggling new roles. Even the most optimistic among us have felt the pressures caused by COVID-19.
If you struggle with mental illness, you know that any change, no matter how small or big, can leave you reeling. Lack of direct support and a consistent schedule may have you feeling at a loss. Even if you have never previously sought help, new anxieties may arise from this novel event.
HOW CAN CORONAVIRUS AFFECT MY MENTAL HEALTH AND WHAT CAN I DO?
Statistics about COVID-19 are scary enough as is, but how does this affect your mental health? While many of us may feel more anxious than normal, those of us who suffer from mental illness may feel this ten-fold.
During these difficult times, we encourage the same healing strategies that we’ve used in the past. Read on to learn how you can manage various mental issues and find help.
Anxiety and Stress
If you regularly suffer from anxiety, such as GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder,) you may feel more panicked than usual. Our clinicians at Olive Branch Therapy encourage you to try something called “being with your fear.” Identify what is currently causing you stress and recognize that right here, right now, you are safe. Additionally, we encourage you to limit your media intake to only once a day and focus on positive outlets in your life.
Depression
Coronavirus may be leading many of those with depression to face suicidal thoughts. The fear of sickness and death, hopelessness and loneliness are not easy feelings to tackle by any stretch. If you are facing suicidal thoughts, speak with one of our counselors today or call the National Suicide Prevention LIfeline at 1–800–273–8255. We also encourage you to create a daily self-care routine, distract yourself from depressing media and connect with your loved ones.
Learn more about how we can help you with your depression and/or anxiety here.
Substance Abuse
The risk of relapse is no joke. We understand that in the days of social-distancing it’s incredibly hard to stay accountable and even harder to find ways to distract yourself. Aside from continuing teletherapy with us for your substance abuse treatment, our clinicians at Olive Branch Therapy Group strongly suggest you connect with your loved ones or sponsors often, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Give yourself daily pep talks and invest in a new hobby to keep you mentally busy.
Struggles for Parents and Families
Many parents are suddenly struggling with the reality of working from home. Being a full time worker and parent comes with a host of new struggles and, well, newness! Families who were used to their own alone times are suddenly stuck with each other, with no return to normalcy in sight. So how do you cope? Along with family therapy, we encourage communication within the family, building routines and trying to find the time to get out of the house (of course, only if you are healthy.) Most of all, recognize your limits and slow down–we’re all in this together!
WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONES TODAY
Olive Branch Therapy Group is here for you. Here are the five main tips we have for you during these challenging times:
- Don’t wait to reach out to your therapist, doctor or healthcare provider. Now more than even it’s important to stay healthy, physically and mentally. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment today.
- Set and try to keep a regular routine.
- Reach out to loved ones frequently, even if it’s just to virtually see and hear them.
- Stay stocked up on your regular medications.
- While COVID-19 is a serious issue, it is not a death sentence. Get information from reliable resources and take breaks from the media.
The team here at Olive Branch Therapy Group want you to know we are here for you. Learn more about how we can help you and contact us to start your healing journey today!
