Dr. Courtney Miller
(SNR/CSS) - During a time when difficult decisions are being made by Church and community officials in response to the current health situation in our community, it is easy to experience a strong emotional response and to feel a myriad of feelings such as unsettled, anxious, depressed, scared, overwhelmed, angry, lonely, and confused.
This is a very challenging time for communities with a lot of unknowns, uncertainties and unchartered areas.
This unanticipated change to day-to-day life functioning is stressful. Many have had to create alternative plans very quickly and the traditional in-person manner of interaction has become web-based almost overnight.
All of this, combined with reduced in-person social engagement, can be overwhelming. Not to mention, the financial strain that many may be facing due to employment reduction, business closures and loss of income.
In an effort to help buffer the psychological effects of this pandemic, it is important to also be attentive to mental health care. Keeping up-to-date about COVID-19 is likely a high priority for most but it is important to obtain such information from credible sources and to minimize exposure to media outlets that may promote fear or panic.
Parents can support children by encouraging questions and helping them understand the current situation at a level that is appropriate for their development. Maintaining schedules of bedtimes, meals, and exercise within the home is very important for both children and adults. Such routines help support a sense of control and normalcy when other aspects of life are outside of one’s control.
It is important to recognize that feelings such as loneliness, boredom, fear of contracting disease, anxiety, stress, and panic are all normal responses to a stressful situation such as a disease outbreak. Self-care should continue to be a high priority, not only for individual health but also to be able to best care for others. Self-care not only includes healthy eating and sleeping habits and physical activity and exercise, but also mental, spiritual and social engagement.
When faced with stress, individuals “cope” using a variety of strategies, some of which are healthy and some of which may be unhealthy. It is very helpful to intentionally examine how one is “coping” with the present situation and if current means of managing stress are supportive or are potentially harmful. Make efforts to utilize coping strategies that support positive physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being. During this time, modifications and creativity will likely be necessary to adjust to the reality of the situation.
While there is a lot of unknown at this time, it does not have to be faced alone. Mental health is still readily available and accessible. The Immaculate Heart of Mary Counseling Center (IHMCC) of Catholic Social Services is still in full operation, despite having closed its physical location to the public in alignment with public health recommendations.
At this time, the IHMCC has transitioned all of its counseling services (including individual, family and group therapy) to a telehealth platform which utilizes both video and audio. This system allows the IHMCC to continue continuity of care both to current and prospective clients. The IHMCC staff is available to assist with this transition, making it as easy as possible. System requirements for telehealth are access to computer / iPad / Smartphone, internet connection, and webcam / microphone if not pre-installed on the device.
The IHMCC is accepting new referrals at this time and will assist in the set-up for telehealth. The IHMCC strives to be a resource amidst COVID-10 and continues to update the IHMCC website (immaculateheartcounseling.org) in support of the on-going mental health needs of the community.
Related Item: CSS offers tele-counseling
