By: Anna De Simone ANSONIA, Conn. – In light of all of the substantial hardships that Americans are facing with the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing the warning signs of severe depression, anxiety and stress and learning coping mechanisms could potentially save a life –including your own. According to BHcare of Ansonia’s Clinical Intern, David Duffield M.S.W, increased agitation in interpersonal matters, increased drinking or substance use and [expressing] behavior [that is] consistently different than past “normal” functioning are just a few of the many red flags that someone is in need of mental health services. “A common theme is: ‘I need a break,’” Duffield said. “Many parents can feel like they have no alone time or adequate ways to destress. It is important to respect everyone’s need for time and space daily --overall uncertainty regarding financial and health related matters.” Prioritizing self-care is crucial to maintaining a healthy mental state throughout this time, according to Duffield. He advises people not to pressure themselves by setting high expectations to be “overly productive.” Instead, Duffield said to manage your expectations truthfully and “find initial satisfaction in the thought that you are surviving and getting through this tough time.” To assist with adapting to the drastic changes in one’s standard day-to-day routine, Duffield suggests adding normalcy to the day by going for a walk outdoors with family or friends and scheduling a weekly video conference with extended family. To add a twist, he encouraged participating in themed video chats such as wearing old Halloween costumes or playing virtual games with loved ones. “Connection and human interaction are still important,” said Duffield. As far as those individuals who are currently considered more susceptible to a drastic decline in their mental health Duffield said the elderly are the most at-risk because of their mobility issues and stated increased loneliness due to a decrease in in-person contact. Additionally, Duffield said individuals whom have issues obtaining or have unemployment benefits ending without definitive return dates to work are also a vulnerable group. Thanks to the innovative telehealth services offered by many providers in the Valley area, those individuals who wish to seek help with their mental health can ‘meet’ with a therapist or prescriber via video or audio-only conferencing, according to Duffield. Something as simple as training the mind to method of thinking can make a difference in one’s overall mental health. Duffield said: “Cognitive restructuring includes challenging your negative thoughts by asking: ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’ and ‘Where is the evidence?’ in regard to the rationality of the thought.” To regulate emotions, Duffield said to work on the “mind and body’ grounding connection.” Simple activities that put your mind and body to work such as taking a walk while talking with a friend can help one manage their thoughts, according to Duffield. How does one protect their mental health throughout the pandemic? Daily proactive self care. “Incorporate at least minimal healthier eating, fitness or physical activity and 15 minutes of decompression or relaxation,” Duffield said. “Try to incorporate this, but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t do all of them.” To great surprise, individuals in the Valley area who are clients of BHcare have only suffered a moderate impact on their mental health, according to Duffield, who said many clients have shown “great resiliency” and have improved on their ability to address and manage issues independently since they had no other choice. For those individuals who feel hopeless in regard to their current state of life, Duffield’s message is: “resiliency is a strong trait in the human race.” He then added that there are similarities between the current COVID-19 crisis and the Spanish Flu pandemic that the nation faced back in 1918. “We acclimate and eventually return to normalcy,” said Duffield. “Have faith.” Although some Americans are convinced that wearing a mask is a political statement, Duffield said not to get into the political aspect of the virus. He urges the public to use common sense by washing their hands regularly and wearing a mask when shopping at stores. “There is a reason Connecticut is a leader and on pace to eradicate the virus quicker than any other state,” Duffield said. “We need a sense of community more than ever now.” If you or a loved one is in need of professional help, please do not hesitate to utilize the following resources: BHcare Valley Offices Connecticut COVID-19 Response: Mental Health Resources The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Available 24 hours a day/7 days a week Phone: 1-800-273-8255 The National Institute of Mental Health |
CategoriesAuthorsGreater Valley Chamber Staff, Interns & Members Archives
November 2023
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