Proactive Steps to Deal with Depression During Covid

The world today is much different than what we’re used to. While we are not in total lockdown like other countries, we are still mandated to shelter in place. This includes not going to work, avoiding social interactions, and leaving the house only for essential needs. These efforts to lower the curve, can make individuals feel isolated, depressed, and anxious. While it is still unknown when the restrictions will be lifted, we will get through this together and you will not be alone at any time. Here are some tips and steps to take: 

Telemedicine

Telemedicine is the new norm. As we deal with increased stress levels, decreased cash flow, and an inability to seek mental health services. However, the option of telemedicine provides those in need of help a solution to these issues. In a crisis like this, insurance companies are more lenient and will cover all medically appropriate care, regardless of how it's delivered. Different insurance companies like United Healthcare and Kaiser Permanente have offered their patients to get connected via telemedicine with an in-house therapist and psychiatrist at no cost to her as well as other options for marginal reimbursements after care. Telemedicine provides the opportunity for patients to receive the care and treatment they need in a timely order.

If you are interested, give us a call today for more information and how to book an appointment or Click Here!

Reaching Out

It’s crucial during times like these to reach out to loved ones and friends to talk about feelings and update one another. Just because we are practicing social distancing guidelines doesn’t mean we are cut off from socializing. We live in a world of technological advancements and many of our closest friends and loved ones are now a phone call or video chat away through platforms such as FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, Facebook and Google Hangouts. This can alleviate stress and anxiety as well as reduce the feelings of loneliness which can lead to depressive symptoms. If you believe you are suffering from a depressive disorder and need immediate help, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Hotline is available for you to call, 1-800-662-4357.

Never had a face to face virtual call? It’s easy! Just click on one of the links below, create an account, and you are ready to call! Here are some virtual calling platforms: Skype, Facebook, Zoom, Google Hangouts, Facetime 

Mindfulness

Physical fitness is one of the most effective and efficient ways to boost an individual's mood and increase motivation. Just 15 minutes a day of physical exercise can make a huge difference during these times. The Mayo Clinic has found that physical activity has been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression or anxiety. In addition, it has been shown that exercise has even prevented depression and anxiety to return even after remission. Simple activities include going for a jog around the block, mowing the lawn, or riding a bike. These activities can be accomplished even with the social distancing guidelines. In addition, there are many different FREE online classes and tutorials for any individual to take on. 

Here are a few links to in home workouts and free workout classes: 20 Minute Home Workout, Free Yoga Classes, Planet Fitness Work-in

Making Schedules for Yourself

One of the symptoms associated with depression is the lack of purpose and worth. Prior to the shelter in place guidelines, we all followed a schedule each and everyday. Creating a daily schedule with goals and tasks can make each day eventful and gives an individual a sense of structure and control. Adding simple tasks to the calendar with activities such as cleaning the house, doing the laundry, doing home workouts, taking out the trash, and sweeping. Other activities include essential trips to the grocery store, virtual meetings, and cooking a healthy meal.

Diet

Diet is such an important part to keep up and maintain during this pandemic. Being at home increases the urge to snack on foods high in saturated fats, refined sugars, and processed ingredients, however snacking is a good thing as long as we are making healthy choices and replacing these with fresh fruits and veggies. Ginseng and foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids are well known brain boosters and help aid in balancing stress levels by regulating cortisol. These two ingredients have been shown to aid in the reduction of depression.

Give us a call today at 714-867-7037 for more information and if you are interested in meeting with Dr. Suzuki for an initial psychiatric evaluation.