Getting through the Holidays can be Mentally Challenging
Tune into WBBZ-TV Channel 5 on Wednesday December 9 and Saturday December 12!
By Annette Pinder
The holidays are frequently a difficult time for many people, but this year they will likely be even more challenging, as medical caution against risking exposure to COVID-19 by socializing outside of those we live with. For some people this means spending the holidays alone. COVID-19 has been hard, for sure. Being separated from loved ones is especially hard, which has led to a significant increase in those seeking care and guidance for mental health issues.
Elizabeth Woike-Ganga, LCSW-R, President & CEO of BestSelf Behavioral Health, is very concerned about the impact of the escalating COVID-19 pandemic on mental health this season. She says, “Everyone is experiencing very strong emotions during this difficult time of uncertainty. People still do not understand this virus, many have lost loved ones they were unable to be with in their final days. People have lost their jobs, are worried about their kids, and feel overwhelmed with feelings of fear and isolation. We hear from parents, teenagers, and healthcare providers under extreme stress. It is, therefore, not surprising to see people with new mental health issues entering treatment, and folks with a history of mental health problems feeling worse and turning to substance abuse and opioids as a coping strategy.”
Woike-Ganga emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections with others during this difficult time, with some helpful suggestions. “Individuals can create greater connection with others by sharing experiences remotely, such as music during a meal, sharing the same menu items, having a virtual family call before or after your meal, or having an outdoor, socially distanced visit.” She even offers some fun ideas such as having an ugly sweater party or other friendly virtual competition, writing letters or calling friends you haven’t spoken to in a while, volunteering for a nonprofit remotely, or helping a homeless shelter prepare holiday meals or care packages.
The most important thing Woike-Ganga wants people to know is when to reach out for help by contacting their primary care physician or a mental health provider. She says warning signs such as ongoing depression, anxiety, drastic changes in appetite, irritability, changes in sleep habits, and other behaviors are a call to action. “It is important to know that help is available right away, including the same day through a virtual visit or online chat, which BestSelf can provide 24 hours a day. She adds, “If a person appears to be in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others, it is important to contact Crisis Services at 716-834-3131.”
Being sick over a holiday is never fun. Being alone and feeling mentally distressed isn’t either. Fortunately, there is help. Learn more at www.bestselfwny.org or call 716-884-0888 anytime. BestSelf offers in-person one-on-one and virtual counseling 24/7, group therapy, and support groups with others experiencing the same challenges.
To learn more about mental health challenges during the pandemic and more, tune into WBBZ Channel 5 on Wednesday December 9 at 8 pm and Saturday December 12 at noon for an entire program devoted to getting through the holidays at this extraordinarily difficult time as we try to keep one another safe, mentally and physically healthy, and learn about available help and resources.
