It was inevitable, and a couple of weeks ago it finally happened…I was faced with my first client who had lost somebody to COVID19. For the last few weeks I have worked with a handful of clients who have been working within the healthcare field and listening to some of their stories has been both harrowing and humbling. Several months back, I could not have even begun to conceptualise a global pandemic which would have such cataclysmic consequences for so many people. Like most people, I had to close down my practice for any face to face therapy sessions, however thankfully I have still been able to operate remotely. Whilst it has felt good to be supporting people in such a challenging time, I cannot help but feel inadequate next to the wonderful and selfless healthcare workers who are putting their own welfare on the line to support others. I would like to express my sincerest gratitude and admiration to every single one of the aforementioned, not because I have been affected by COVID19 personally, simply in recognition of the wonderful and important role they are playing in the future of so many people.
At the beginning of this pandemic I stated that this would bring out the best of people and the worst of people due to its very nature. Thankfully I am seeing more of the former, with many communities galvanising and offering unwavering support to others. I have seen so many examples of warm generosity and a sense of togetherness, it has left me with an enormous sense of pride. Remember that social isolation does not mean you have to be, or feel alone. There are so many ways for us to communicate with friends, families and neighbours, which means we are able to remain in company without contravening any social isolation guidelines. Now more than ever, is a time for utilising your support network and not feeling any shame in doing so.
Unprecedented times like these can often exacerbate mental health problems and it is important that we remain vigilant for those already experiencing emotional turbulence. If you are feeling like things are getting on top of you, make sure you reach out to family, friends or other support networks. Whilst you may not be able to sit with them, you can still use other methods to communicate, whether it is instant messaging, telephone, or even a face time app so you get that face to face time with loved ones. Therapists are still available and many will be operating using other methods. I am still conducting sessions via telephone, online face to face and have even worked with a client on instant messaging. The most important thing is that you find a method that works for you, which allows you to externalise what you are feeling. Remember as well as looking out for the well being of others, it is vitally important you also consider your own well being.
Keep safe and keep talking.
Jason
At the beginning of this pandemic I stated that this would bring out the best of people and the worst of people due to its very nature. Thankfully I am seeing more of the former, with many communities galvanising and offering unwavering support to others. I have seen so many examples of warm generosity and a sense of togetherness, it has left me with an enormous sense of pride. Remember that social isolation does not mean you have to be, or feel alone. There are so many ways for us to communicate with friends, families and neighbours, which means we are able to remain in company without contravening any social isolation guidelines. Now more than ever, is a time for utilising your support network and not feeling any shame in doing so.
Unprecedented times like these can often exacerbate mental health problems and it is important that we remain vigilant for those already experiencing emotional turbulence. If you are feeling like things are getting on top of you, make sure you reach out to family, friends or other support networks. Whilst you may not be able to sit with them, you can still use other methods to communicate, whether it is instant messaging, telephone, or even a face time app so you get that face to face time with loved ones. Therapists are still available and many will be operating using other methods. I am still conducting sessions via telephone, online face to face and have even worked with a client on instant messaging. The most important thing is that you find a method that works for you, which allows you to externalise what you are feeling. Remember as well as looking out for the well being of others, it is vitally important you also consider your own well being.
Keep safe and keep talking.
Jason