Starting Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic

Homebound? Anxious? On edge? The coronavirus isn’t the only health risk our community will have to battle. Our Barbour Community Health Association therapists say the fight for our mental health is just as serious, which is why we have adapted our practices to keep them working with patients at home during the stay-at-home order.

When you’re suffering on the inside, day-to-day tasks are challenging and can be a difficult hurdle to jump alone. Unfortunately, seeking mental health services can be difficult for some. Whether it’s the stigma surrounding mental health or one’s ability to pay/ have health insurance, these instances can often halt someone from getting the help they need.

Thankfully, we offer numerous behavioral health services to help you sort through any anguish with a trained professional. With well-trained psychologists and licensed counselors, BCHA can help diagnose and treat a range of mental illnesses, from depressive, anxiety, and eating disorders to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as many others. BCHA takes pride in taking care of one’s emotional/mental well-being to enhance their quality of life.

Keep reading this blog to find out how you can comfortably start therapy at home during this uncertain time with BCHA and what you can expect.

1. Keep searching for the right therapist.

Stepping into a virtual therapy office is a milestone for someone suffering from a mental illness. With that said, if you don’t quite jive or feel comfortable with the first therapist, don’t be afraid to find a different one. It’s important that you feel relaxed, open and honest so you can form a solid relationship with the therapist. This way, you’ll feel more motivated and open during your scheduled sessions, which in return, will help your mental health.

2. Disregard the stigma.

So many people go without therapy or treatment for mental illness because of the stigma attached to mental health. However, you should not let the crude remarks and comments negatively affect you and your journey into a better life. And, please understand that each therapy session is completely confidential. You should never have to worry about any information being discussed amongst others. 

3. Be comfortable talking about therapy.

Talking about therapy to a close friend or family member can be a relief and take away any anxieties you may have about future sessions. Not only will this help your fears of embarrassment, but openly talking about therapy breaks the stigma. Be mindful that you don’t have to share all the details that were discussed during the session, however simply saying ‘I had therapy today, and it really helped get a lot of things off of my mind’ can be huge with your fears of therapy.

4. Money might be a concern, but your mental health is worth it.

Along with the stigmas attached to therapy, sessions can oftentimes be steep, which ultimately stops people from therapy. However, it’s important to understand that your mental health and quality of life is worth every penny. Luckily, BCHA offers sliding scale fees for those without insurance or underinsured individuals. BCHA encourages folks not to stray away from services because of cost or the stigma attached to mental health.

5. Virtual appointments are available during COVID-19.

These are unprecedented times but BCHA is evolving and adapting to how it meets with and treats patients while COVID-19 persists. Virtual appointments, through video and telephone, are available and will be utilized until it’s safe to resume “normal” in-person appointments at one of its Barbour County locations.

In each service that is offered, BCHA is looking out for the betterment of each patient that needs help, whether that’s physically or mentally.

The COVID-19 pandemic brings with it uncertainty for everyone as we cope with uncertain timelines, time away from loved ones and increased amounts of stress due to financial hardship – just know what we are here to help.

If you’re struggling, please consider reaching out to BCHA and scheduling a phone consultation with one of our experienced counselors.