Hopeful in the midst of a pandemic

Counseling has changed significantly since the coronavirus pandemic took hold. For one thing, most of my sessions are by phone or video chat. Thankfully, we can offer these options to people who need to shelter in place.

Another way the pandemic has changed how we do things is that access into the hospital is significantly restricted. We used to have visitors coming in regularly to ask about the program or to visit with staff. Access is now limited to patients and staff and is granted only after a person is screened for symptoms.

The things we talk about in counseling have changed, as well. For many, having to be isolated is depressing. The abrupt change in routine — such as missing lunch with friends at that favorite restaurant — is upsetting. Some patients express fear that this pandemic will not end or that when it does it will change for the worse our way of life. Other patients are upset because of the steady stream of disturbing news coming over social and mass media.

At the risk of sounding naive, I have chosen to be hopeful in the midst of all this. Yes, I keep up with the news (as well as my retirement account — ouch!); but here is why I am hopeful: the human race has always been resilient. I believe we were created with a resiliency that enables us to weather storms like the one we are in. Looking back at history replete with devastating wars and plagues, we have always been able to find a way forward. I believe we will again.

These are difficult days, no question. But one day this storm will be behind us. Stay strong.

If you are having a particularly hard time with all this and it is causing your depression or anxiety to worsen, give us a call at 622-3580. Perhaps we can help.