The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted life and changed many processes for how people could interact with others. Though quarantines and social distancing have long since been lifted, COVID-19 still poses a threat. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to linger, leaving lasting effects on mental health and substance use.
Although pandemic-related restrictions may have eased, the aftermath persists, contributing to heightened fear, stress, and anxiety. Individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders remain particularly vulnerable, as disrupted routines and diminished support networks persist. The reluctance to seek in-person treatment due to ongoing concerns exacerbates the challenges faced by those dealing with substance use disorders.
In adapting to these circumstances, the digital age offers a lifeline through telehealth services, playing a crucial role in providing essential support for maintaining optimal mental health during these challenging times. If you or a loved one is struggling, consider leveraging the convenience of telehealth services available in the post-pandemic landscape.
Advantages of Telehealth
HIPAA-compliant programs and apps enable providers to offer telehealth services to patients who prefer to receive care remotely. This eliminates the need for in-person visits and lowers the risk of contracting contagious illnesses. Instead, patients are able to receive these services in the comfort of their own homes. Furthermore, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (FDA) has expanded prescribing guidelines to make it easier for providers to prescribe medications on secure telemedicine programs.[1] The Public Health Emergency Declaration due to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic allows registered practitioners to prescribe Schedule II-V controlled substances via telehealth if they meet the three following guidelines:
- Prescriptions are being used for legitimate medical purposes for a person’s usual course of treatment.
- Telemedicine is conducted in real-time with a two-way communication system using audio and visual communications.
- The physician is acting in compliance with both federal and state laws.
This allows patients with mental health conditions and substance use disorders to continue getting their medication regimen while avoiding unnecessary in-person appointments.
Whether you’re continuing a regular treatment regimen and require ongoing care or you’re struggling with your mental health during the pandemic, telehealth services are there to help. You don’t have to risk leaving your home and breaking social distancing guidelines to get the help that you need.
Supporting our Patients and Their Families via Telehealth
If you’re suffering from the effects of social distancing, you’re not alone. In fact, most people are struggling with isolation during COVID-19 which leads to anxiety and depression. What’s happening across the world right now is unprecedented – so it’s okay if you don’t know exactly how to handle it.[2] What matters is what you do to cope with isolation, anxiety, and depression. Do you reach out for help in times like these or do you turn back to unhealthy patterns and coping mechanisms?
People with addictions or mental illness are prone to feeling anxiety and depression already and are discouraged from isolating from their peers. As a result, many individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions are susceptible to falling back into old behaviors while social distancing. Similarly, people in recovery are more likely to relapse while under the stress and fear of the unknown surrounding the pandemic.[3] That’s why it’s important to reach out for help before you slip back into these old behaviors. That’s why we’re encouraging patients to take advantage of 1 on 1 therapy and family therapy via telehealth during COVID-19.
1 on 1 Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is great for focusing on issues such as mental illness or substance abuse. Oftentimes, there are events or circumstances that trigger mental health conditions and addiction. These underlying factors need to be addressed in order for a person to heal. 1 on 1 virtual therapy pairs up patients with a clinical therapist to help uncover and cope with these issues. By targeting the root of mental health conditions, people begin to move past these things, learn healthy ways to cope, and grow into a healthier person.
During COVID-19, isolation can take a serious toll on your mental health – especially if you live alone or live with someone who is not healthy. Be sure to reach out for help and make sure your needs are met before you slip back into negative behaviors. Individual therapy can help you process the emotions you’re feeling and allow you to create an actionable plan to prevent relapse or return to old behaviors. Every person is different with unique needs and individual therapy provides people with the personalized attention needed to create a treatment plan that works for you.
Family Therapy
Like 1 on 1 therapy, family therapy also aims to address underlying issues but on a family level. Right now, families are restricted to their homes and are spending more time with their loved ones. While this may be healthy for some as a bonding opportunity, dysfunctional families are likely to struggle. Past resentments and current tensions may come to a head while the nation is on lockdown and emotions can start running high. However, there’s no better time to address these issues through family therapy than right now. While you’re all couped up together, virtual family therapy can help you improve communication skills in the household, work past unaddressed resentments, and help bring balance back into the home.
Get the Help You Need Today
If COVID-19 is taking a toll on your mental health, your family dynamic, or has led you to return to old habits, contact us today to see how we’re using telemedicine to meet the needs of our patients and their families.
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