Novel Coronavisrus Update

We are all feeling impacted by the social, financial and emotional effects of the Novel Coronavirus. Be it out of fear or precaution, our nation is isolating ourselves physically with the goal of stopping the spread of this loathsome virus. However, by doing this, we find that we are also disconnecting from the people or activities that have been crucial to our identities.

If you find that you are self-isolating, you might be feeling any number of symptoms, such as anxiety, panic, or depression. Things that may exacerbate this can include but are not limited to:

• Financial and/or job stress
• Finding it difficult to get out of bed
• Feeling disconnected from the world
• Questioning your purpose or meaning
• Increased anger being expressed at loved ones
• Increased substance abuse.

It is difficult to find the time for our own self-care and mental health under the best of circumstances. When facing a pandemic, this becomes that much harder. Physical isolation doesn't have to mean social isolation. We can reach out to family or friends by tele-conferencing, or even by talking with people on the phone. Being physically active also can help our coping skills.

Insurance companies have been very accommodating of late, and are now covering telephone and video sessions. They understand that people need to access providers for assistance, even while keeping themselves and others safe. If this would be helpful to you, please feel free to call me at 617-770-2050 to set up a telephone or video appointment. The hardest part of the process is making that first call. Be safe.