How to Survive the New World of COVID-19This is an unsettling time for all of us.
From first responders and hospital personnel, the sick and the compromised, to those of us who are following new social rules to avoid spreading a disease we can't see even when it stands asymptomatically in front of us, we are all affected. Many people are also worried about the financial repercussions of shuttered businesses or investments that have taken a nosedive. We may have no control over this virus, but we do have control over how we maintain a healthy emotional state. Here are some ideas toward that end. You may have even more ideas and I'd love to hear them. First, keep a routine of work, play, and sleep. Your brain understands routines and will respond with a happier mood Take care of yourself
Second, if you have a preexisting mental health condition, continue treatment by scheduling a video therapy session. Be especially aware of any new or worsening symptoms.
We can meet this new challenge. We will overcome it together. To Medicate or Not to MedicateAs a culture, we like the quick fix. We have become accustomed to believing that a prescription will fix our sadness or fears. What we find, though, is that even the most effective pharmaceuticals do not "cure" depression or anxiety. They may ameliorate some of the symptoms, some of the time, in some people, over a short period of time. Certainly, even temporary relief of symptoms sounds good.
Some forms of therapy (which I practice) have been found to have much better and longer lasting results. Making significant cognitive, physical and relationship changes under experienced, knowledgeable guidance can change lives. * While psychiatric medications frequently create their own negative side-effects, there are circumstances for which I recommend medication as a complement to therapy. In those cases, I work with psychiatrists I trust who know the value of therapy and do not over-prescribe. |
***COVID-19 UPDATE: I am still here for you, proudly taking care of patients. For obvious reasons, all appointments right now, including new patient appointments, are via virtual means--that is, video or phone. So please do call or click on the "Schedule" button on this page if you'd like to set up an appointment. Thank you for making this change with me.
I'm able to meet with new patients fairly quickly now, a change from the pre-COVID-19 world. So don't hesitate to call if you'd like to schedule a virtual appointment.*** From Anxiety and Depression...
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