Anxiety over chaos in the U.S.

I live in the U.S. I am feeling A LOT OF ANXIETY due to the pandemic, the protests (for good reason), chaos, shootings , and the polarization happening?

[Hidden]

Im living in the U.S as well and it is scary. I try and stay away from the news.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Me too. Sometimes can't help it and just want to get an update on where we're at as far as the pandemic.

[Hidden]

Yes, these are just really dark times. This country is very divided and we all know the saying, United we stand, divided we fall.

[Windsorgardener5087]

Hi 👋 thank you for your post which has arrived in Australia. Covid-19 and life events certainly can affect our mental health big time.

I have tried to process my thoughts on my own and by talking to family and friends. Recently I was referred to our government health website for mental health phone consults and supports for my mental healthcare.

It was scary not knowing what would happen, even on the end of the phone. Once I called, the responder couldn't have been more helpful. I was given phone numbers for providers to have telehealth consultations instead of face-to-face and advised of the help lines to call between appointments.

My first ever telehealth consultation is in 2 weeks, much sooner than if booking a regular psychologist appointment (usually 4-6 week wait).

If nothing else, Covid-19 has brought about some much needed improvement in mental health care in unprecedented times. 🐨

[Hidden in reply to Windsorgardener5087]

Oh, good. I'm glad you're getting help. I've been going to therapy on and off, but it is too expensive here. $50 U.S. foe each session. Healthcare coverage in general is expensive here and mental health care is barely covered. If people are out of work, no coverage at all. However, you are correct - it has brought more awareness to mental health. Thank you for your kind words.

[Dog_Lover1 in reply to Windsorgardener5087]

Good Evening (in Australia)

Windsor gardener5087,

I'm so pleased to hear there is a heightened sense of priority and response in Australia to the CoVID-19 mental health plight. I used to live in Australia, and loved every minute!

Regarding your upcoming telehealth consultation...if I could offer some insight, as a regular participant myself, it would be:

1. Approach the call with an open mind (and heart).

2. Know that just like an in-office consultation, you must be present.

3. You will get out of the call what you put into it.

4. Be consistent in attending thereafter.

Very good luck to you! I would love to hear how the consult went for you, two weeks from now. Hopefully, you really find it beneficial. Feel free to message me if you would like to share.

Wishing you well,

🐕 DogLover1