The Importance of C.A.R.E
In recent weeks, the coronavirus has created a massive pandemic. This deadly virus has not only contributed to poor physical health but has led to an emotional and mental disaster for many. Schools have closed, many businesses have shut down, individuals have been laid off or furloughed from their jobs, and people have been forced to stay home and practice “social distancing.” Our grocery shelves are empty, the stock market is volatile, the economy seems to be crashing, and all of this has led to panic, anger, hoarding, and fear, creating a psychological pandemic.
Psychological pandemic
The psychological pandemic is an indirect effect of the biological pandemic: It is a toll on the emotional and behavioral health of human beings, which ranges from mild (“What’s all the fuss about?”) to severe (panic, hoarding, paranoia, aggression). Our mental health is essential. During stressful times such as these, we can quickly become bogged down with anxiety or depression, and we are more likely to engage in unhealthy coping habits such as alcohol or drug use.
It is important to note that anxiety is not necessarily bad; it is a normal reaction to an abnormal circumstance. Anxiety serves a purpose: to motivate us to deal with potential threats. However, when anxiety results in trouble sleeping, paranoia, difficulty concentrating, and reduced functioning, it then becomes a problem and can wreak havoc on your life. For many, anxiety is at an ultimate high during this trying time
How can we, as a society, come together and take care of each other?
The treatment for this “psychological pandemic” is to reaffirm and strengthen the bonds that tie us together. The human spirit is strong, and if we take time to C.A.R.E. for each other and ourselves, we can overcome this world challenge together.
Compassionate
Awareness
Responsibility
Empathy
Practice compassion
We must take this time to practice compassion towards others and ourselves. Check-in on your neighbors, offer to run errands for those who cannot leave the house, smile more, be more courteous to those who are serving your community, and be compassionate towards yourself. Allow yourself time to reflect, exercise, eat well, sleep as much as you can, engage in activities at home that make you happy, take a bath, read a book, go for a run, play with your dog. Practicing compassion towards yourself and others is not only good for the community, but it is also good for your mental health.
Practice awareness
It is becoming more difficult to differentiate fact from fiction about the virus. Be aware of what sources are credible and which sources are not. Be mindful of how you feel after you consume the news or spend time engaging in social media. Do you feel more anxious or depressed? If you find that the news is triggering, then avoid watching the news. Set limits to how much time you spend each day, reading about the COVID 19 pandemic. Refer to CDC, WHO, and your local county health departments for the most updated information and avoid any public opinions or biased sources.
Take responsibility
It is essential to take responsibility for your health and the health of others around you. Wash your hands, practice social distancing, avoid touching your face, avoid non-essential travel, stay home if you can, and if you are sick, follow the guidelines of your healthcare provider. It is essential to handle your actions towards yourself and others, and if you feel as though your anxiety or depression is overbearing, then seek treatment. Taking responsibility to prevent the spread of this virus is just as important as taking responsibility for your mental health.
Practice empathy
It can be so easy to rush through our daily routines without being mindful of others. There are many individuals who are extremely sick, who have lost loved ones, who have lost their jobs, and who are in mandatory quarantine. As a society, it is essential to come together and try to understand that you are not the only affected by this virus.
We Are Here for You!
We are committed to the health and safety of you and/or your loved ones, and we are FULLY OPEN & OPERATIONAL. At AKUA Mind & Body, the safety of our Clients is our top priority. We are aware of the increased fear and anxiety among most people regarding the current pandemic. Hence, we are doing everything that we can to keep healthfulness and safety. We have reviewed medical and hygiene protocols with staff and are in touch with local health care providers and emergency management centers to ensure that we are equipped with the latest information and resources.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a mental health illness or substance use and addiction disorder, we can help now more than ever! AKUA Mind & Body provides an integrative treatment approach with multiple levels of care from detox, residential to intensive outpatient programs. With several facilities throughout the Sacramento Region, Los Angeles & Orange County Region, and San Diego Region, we aim to provide our clients with a solid foundation for healing and transformation. Gender specific and Co-ed facilities available.
Call our 24/7 admissions helpline to seek help today!
