The New York State Office of Mental Health has developed
and distributed guidelines to help people manage the anxiety caused by
their concerns over the COVID-19 epidemic. The guidance document,
available on the OMH website has
general information for the public, as well as specific guidelines for
people receiving mental health services, mental health providers,
caregivers of elderly individuals and for parents, including parents of
children with pre-existing anxiety disorders.
OMH Commissioner Dr Ann Sullivan said, “While we continue to address
and mitigate the physical risks caused by the COVID-19 virus – including
washing our hands often and avoiding large crowds and people who are
ill -- it is just as important that we understand and ease the emotional
stress caused by fear and anxiety. These guidelines will help people
take better care of themselves, their loved ones and the individuals in
their care.”
The guidelines offer advice on practicing self-care, understanding
the difference between typical and atypical stress, and staying
well-informed while avoiding information overload and unreliable
sources.
For people receiving mental health services, the guidelines describe
how to work with their provider to develop a coping plan, and having
alternative options prepared in case their routine services are
disrupted. These might include using telemental health services, getting prescription medication, or engaging in supplemental mental wellness activities.
In addition to protecting their children from infection, many parents
are also concerned about the emotional toll that fear of the virus is
causing their children. The guidelines provide advice on talking about
COVID-19 to their kids, most of whom are already getting information
from their friends, classmates and the internet.
While many parents are reluctant to discuss the emergency with young
children, avoiding the topic is likely to feed anxiety. Discussing it
openly and honestly increases the likelihood that children will come to
their parents if they have questions or anxieties in the future.
For parents of kids who are out of school, the guidelines offer
advice on working with their children to create a structured routine,
which includes time for outdoor activities and exercise as well as
mealtimes and bedtimes.
Providers of mental healthcare, who often neglect their own health
while they serve others, are advised to place a priority on self-care.
This includes getting adequate rest and exercise, eating healthy food,
maintaining social connections, and taking time away from service
provision as possible.
Caregivers of elderly individuals are especially concerned because of
the increased danger for older people. While the elderly are being
advised to isolate themselves as much as possible, the resultant social
isolation and loneliness can take a toll on their physical and mental
health.
To prevent that isolation, caregivers are advised to set up and
provide technological assistance to keep the elderly connected with
their family and friends. Other recommendations include helping elderly
individuals find ways where they can help others.
One of the most important ways to reduce anxiety is by reducing the
risk of infection. This includes practicing good hygiene, avoiding
large crowds and practicing social distancing.
Source: The New York State Office of Mental Health
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