What worries you the most when it comes to people’s mental health over the past year? What worries me the most is the lack of access to services and thinking about individuals who were forced to quarantine in very toxic settings. The domestic violence and suicidal rate has skyrocketed since the pandemic and limited resources or access to resources has played a part in that role. I can imagine that individuals are experiencing loneliness, grief, job insecurity, fear, depression, and anxiety related to the pandemic and have lost a sense of security. How do you personally manage coronavirus and other pandemic related anxiety?
Sophonie Excellence is a licensed Social Worker from New York City with 7 years of experience working in various areas of practice. Her love and passion for mental health has helped her connect with individuals from different walks of life. Sophonie approaches therapy by establishing a strong therapist-client relationship with a lens filled with compassion, empathy, and charisma. She believes that everyone has the power to reclaim parts of their life through. intentionality.
I turn off the news. I have found that watching or reading the news has only maximized my feelings of anxiety as I often found myself thinking about life’s stressors. I had to learn to create boundaries for myself whether that meant signing off of social media, engaging in healthier conversations, or advising others of what I was okay in talking about. I also engage in self-care everyday through exercise, playing music, and journaling. Finding healthy outlets to manage feelings has helped me sustain my overall wellbeing.
What tips do you have for students struggling with lonliness during the pandemic?
Do you have any advice for students supporting their peers’ mental health?
Use virtual outlets! Connect with your loved ones via tools like Zoom, google hangouts, facetime, or WhatsApp. The pandemic has allowed for individuals to connect in creative ways and using these resources can help you to interact with your loved ones. I would also suggest engaging in something you enjoy or finding a new hobby. Finding new ways to keep yourself involved in exciting things can bring a sense of fulfillment and help you overcome these feelings.
Put on your oxygen tank first. The best ways we can help others is if we help ourselves first. Create boundaries around your access and find healthy balances of being present with others and taking care of yourself. Most importantly, when you support others, come from a place of non judgment, curiosity, and understanding. Encourage your friends to seek therapy if possible. 28
