Coronavirus has caused a lot of additional anxiety for people all around the world – you are not alone! Here’s some important information things to note…
- If you already had pre-existing mental health issues prior to COVID-19, the pandemic can cause an additional layer of anxiety. That is why it is important to continue self-care and take it easy on yourself!
- Support from friends and family is critical to many people during times of uncertainty. Due to isolation, this means we now have less access to interact with the people around us. However, isolating yourself completely can make anxiety and depressions worse – remember to find time to have a chat with your support network, even if it is just a quick phone call.
- Individuals need to feel like they still have an avenue to seek help from a clinical psychologist when they are in isolation. This is why telehealth sessions can be extremely useful in these uncertain times.
Can telehealth help?
Clinical Psychologists play an important role in helping to reduce anxiety caused by the uncertainty of COVID-19 on top of existing mental health issues. Tele-mental health services are also a simple and effective method to receive psychological services if you are self-isolating.
Research on tele- mental health has shown that it is effective in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. Some studies have shown that treatment via video is just as effective as face to face treatment.
Methods of telehealth
There are different ways to receive tele mental health. These include videoconferencing, telephone, e-mails, and smartphone apps. However, not all of these methods are equally effective at helping struggling individuals. One study showed that passive telehealth technologies (like patient education using computers) do not show as much benefit to clients and often were not liked by clients either. In contrast, the same study found that phone sessions was a very successful way of providing treatment.
Another well supported method of telehealth is videoconferencing such as ‘Skype’. This method has been widely researched and found to be effective in treating many mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD and OCD.
All of the Clinical Psychologists at MindBox Psychology are offering Telehealth services to existing clients and new referrals. The usual Medicare rebates are available for all telehealth consultations.
Please make an enquiry or call the clinic on 02 9438 2511 if you would like to make an appointment.
