The global coronavirus pandemic has turned the world on its head in a matter of weeks, giving all of us precious little time to prepare for such an unprecedented disruption. As the proportions of the moment we are facing have come into view, many folks have directed their energy toward preparing in basic ways: stocking the shelves, working out a plan in case of illness, arranging to work remotely (where possible), and so on. If you, too, have been lucky enough to be able to attend to such tasks, it is probably only now setting in that current circumstances may be the new normal for some time. This means preparing not only the pantry, but the rest of your life, too. And that means addressing your depression…
For those who struggle with depression, surviving this crisis is a genuine concern, especially in instances where cognitive behavioral therapy is essential to treatment. When no longer able to visit a therapist, where does a person go? Below, we offer a range of options that will help you quickly adjust your treatment plan to the circumstances of the present.
Ask your therapist about digital sessions.
Before reaching out to online services, ask your current therapist if she or he can facilitate online meetings. Sticking with someone who is aware of your medical history and with whom you already share trust is the best option if available.
Seek out a specialized therapist online.
A quick Google shows there is no shortage of therapists providing their services online. Not all offerings are equal, though, and it can be overwhelming to try and find a person who is at once qualified, fair-priced, and well-matched to your needs. Skip the scrolling and start with a service like Talkspace, a database of over 3,000 licensed therapists, many of whom specialize in depression. A similarly high-quality service is Online-Therapy, offering customizable packages for a range of mental health afflictions.
What if I can’t afford therapy in these times?
It may be that you are one of the more than a million expected to lose their job; it may be that you had not budgeted for therapy but find the global pandemic too much to handle on your own. Whatever the case, we feel for you. To be severely ill an unable to access care is horrific. Luckily, excellent, affordable online resources exist. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (AADA), for instance, offers an anonymous peer-to-peer online anxiety and depression support group with over 20,000 members worldwide. If a support group the size of a small town isn’t your thing, you might opt for an online course built around cognitive behavioral principles.
Be aware that online therapy is an adjustment.
While strong evidence shows that digital mental health treatment can be as effective as face-to-face therapy, changing your routine will be difficult. For some, the transition will bring only small hiccups; for others, especially those less confident using computers, going online may be harder. Here is a review of what to expect.
Those that suffer from treatment-resistant depression may find that digital services fall short. If this is you and you are in crisis, contact immediate help. If you are not in crisis but seeking to build a robust treatment plan to ensure long-lasting wellness, consider the extraordinary promise of ketamine infusions in offering relief to those who have otherwise found it near impossible to come by.
While at present, the best thing you can do for your health is to stay home, once able, consider visiting out clinic for a free consultation.
Iconic Infusions offers ketamine infusions and IV vitamin therapy to those living in or around the Fayetteville, NC area. Scheduling an appointment is easy to do: simply give us a call at 910.987.5300 or request an appointment online.
