Mental Health During a Pandemic

For a 52-year-old female patient who initially came to LFC over a year ago, the social isolation of the pandemic caused an increased anxiety in symptoms and induced new symptoms, as she also had two family members die from COVID. “The other day a man got sick and died at my apartment complex. The wife found him dead and was screaming all morning until the paramedics showed up. I am one of the lucky ones. I am blessed that I have help. I get to talk to you every week on the phone. Not everyone is blessed as I am.”

A 64-year-old female patient who has had counseling for domestic violence in the past, referred herself to therapy after she lost her son 7 months ago. While she is not experiencing obvious signs of psychological distress, she was mindful of the effect the pandemic and the loss is having on her. In every phone session, she is either putting her granddaughter down for a nap or finishing up a chore. “I don’t have time to think about myself. These kids need me. Their dad just died. I am all they have. I feel better after I vent to you because you listen to me and help me understand things. Talking to you is my break. My “me” time.”

A 58-year-old male patient was referred by a friend to the Clinic to help treat his depression symptoms after he lost his job because of the pandemic. “My friend told me I should come. I wanted to meet with you in person because I don’t talk about my problems. If I am going to talk about things, I need to know the person. Talking on the phone is fine but, in the beginning, I want to see the therapist.” He has since found a job and is no longer receiving services.

All of these stories showcase the significant need for mental health services, especially during a global pandemic. The 54-year-old female with anxiety who symptoms worsened during the pandemic was able to identify new symptoms and make progress in her healing despite sessions being on the phone. Through telehealth appointments, the 64-year-old patient and devoted grandmother has been given the flexibility to feel heard and alleviated even though she has little to no time for herself. Lastly, the newly employed 58-year-old male patient, was given the chance to process his emotions and gain new coping skills to tackle his depression symptoms while waiting for a job opportunity.

What these examples teach us is that in-person or not, these patients have shown resiliency in adapting to the many changes in the past year to take advantage of the new opportunities for mental health care at the Clinic. Here at LFC, we are lucky and blessed to have patients who expressed their gratitude, demonstrated strength and resilience, and participated in the teamwork necessary to improve their lives.