Mental health services shift to virtual

In-person mental health services were a weekly or monthly staple for those who needed it.

Those services are now confined to video chat applications and phone calls because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

All of the primary care and behavioral health services offered through Meridian Health Services are still available, however, just through a digital means, regional coordinator Emily Leas said.

Leas said the transition to online and over the phone therapy sessions has been challenging but is becoming normal as the country is approaching a month into serious social distancing measures.

However, some patients don’t have reliable internet access, she said, which complicates the ability to effectively provide the services they need. Most patients are able to do their sessions through Zoom or another video chat application.

Statewide, Meridian Health has conducted more than 5,000 virtual behavioral health sessions since March 24, Leas said.

Both state and federal agencies have relaxed their regulations on telehealth services, allowing doctors, therapists and other medical professionals to treat their patients remotely.

Tim Smith, a counselor based in Coldwater, Ohio, has begun conducting online sessions for the first time in his career. Smith said it has proved effective for his patients, who are primarily seeking help with family issues.

Social distancing has caused a lot of anxiety, Smith said, in addition to the financial and physical stress caused by the virus.

“Isolation is a struggle,” he added. “We’re social people. The more isolated we become, depression and anxiety is accelerated.”

To combat this, Smith recommends employing technology to stay connected with others through social media, messaging or video chatting.

To reduce the pressure from exterior factors such as financial hardships, Smith recommends taking time to reduce your scope to what is in your control.

“We can’t worry ourselves sick,” he said.

He also emphasized the need to check on children, who are also feeling the stresses of the pandemic.

The transition to e-learning can have a big impact on children, who aren’t used to so much stationary activity, he said. He added it’s important for children to take breaks and have some sort of creative activity to take their mind off of the stresses of the world.

It’s also important for children to keep in contact with their friends, either through social media, video chatting or messaging or playing video games online, Smith said.

Physical activity is also a must, both for adults and kids. Smith said he is encouraged by the number of families he has seen walking together.

Isolation has provided an opportunity for families to spend more time together and it’s vital to take advantage of it, Smith said, for the mental health of the adults and the kids.

A full list of behavioral health services offered for both adults and children through Meridian Health can be found at meridianbhs.org. Leas said primary care virtual visits are now available.