Tag: Barbour Behavioral Health

What is a Case Manager?

What is a Case Manager?

At Barbour Community Health Association, we not only prioritize a patient’s physical health, but also their mental wellness.

Mental health is so, so important to a person’s daily life – whether it’s maintaining relationships, creating healthy family and work life balance, improving emotional health or overall quality of life.

That’s why we ensure we have the best behavioral health team that offers care and compassion to each individual who walks through the door. Our team also includes expert therapists who are specialized in various behavioral health treatment areas, including: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse and many more mental health needs.

Our team also includes case managers who maintain a rapport and working relationship with each patient who may identify with a mental health concern.

Let’s learn a bit more about case managers and their important role in the behavioral health field.

Why are case managers needed?

Case managers often assist patients in connecting them with tools and resources that can benefit and improve their quality of life. They assist in the very important process of managing care to ensure that the patients’ individual needs are being met in the best way possible. They work directly with each patient from the beginning of behavioral health treatment services until completion.

What are our case managers responsibilities?

Case managers help in various ways, including:

– Providing patients with resources, which may include linkage and referral to outside community, treatment and support agencies.
– Coordinating patient appointments.
– Providing compassion and support to all patients via telephone or in person.
– Assisting with coordination of patient health insurance benefits.
– Working with the patient’s licensed health care provider to ensure behavioral health treatment efficiency and service delivery.

What is the difference between a case manager and a therapist?

Barbour Behavioral Health case managers are the initial point of patient contact, and provide support and information regarding available treatment options. Often case managers are referred to as the safety net that helps to catch patients who are in need. They are appointed to a patient to help assist in a smooth recovery throughout treatment with their licensed provider. Case managers communicate with patients in between provider appointments as needed for additional support.

A therapist works with the patient in identifying areas of concern, symptoms, diagnosis and strengths in order to develop personalized treatment goals which can be achieved within the therapeutic process. A therapist helps the patient in treating the underlying cause of symptoms for increased quality of life through various evidenced-based clinical practices, or interventions.

Both aim to ensure that patients are working toward achieving the best version of themselves.

What is the education of our case managers?

Barbour Behavioral Health case managers have a minimum 4-year undergraduate college degree in a human services related field.

At BCHA, we value our case managers, who are dedicated to our patients and their wellbeing.

For more information on behavioral health services, please call 304-823-4000.

Your Guide to EMDR with Robert Kiser, M.A., MT-BC, NCC, LPC, ADS, ALPS

Your Guide to EMDR With Robert Kiser, M.A., MT-BC, NCC, LPC, ADS, ALPS

Starting new therapy for mental health needs can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve tried several types of therapy with minimal to no success in the past. That’s where the staff at Barbour Community Health Association can help. Our providers are now offering Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for patients that can help with a number of conditions. Neurobehavioral psychotherapist, Robert Kiser, M.A., MT-BC, NCC, LPC, ADS, ALPS, sat down to give us an in depth understanding of this innovative type of therapy. Read on to learn more about EMDR and find out if you or a loved one may be a good candidate for this type of therapy.

  1. What is EMDR?

EMDR is an acronym for Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR therapy is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. EMDR is recognized and recommended as an effective treatment for trauma by a wide range of organizations, including: The World Health Organization, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs and Defense, International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies, and the American Psychiatric Association.

  1. How do you start the process? Is there an assessment process before patients begin EMDR treatment?

If you and/or your medical provider feel that EMDR treatment may be right for you, a referral for Behavioral Health assessment can be initiated directly from your medical provider to our Behavioral Health team, and a Behavioral Health case manager will contact you to set up an initial information gathering appointment soon after. You may also contact Barbour Behavioral Health yourself by calling 304-823-4000 (Belington Medical Clinic location) or 304-457-0057 (Myers Clinic location) to schedule an appointment. All Behavioral Health patients enrolled with our agency will receive a proper and thorough assessment so that we can make sure your care is designed and managed with the best possible outcomes for you in mind. 

  1. How does EMDR help patients? What are the benefits?

The purpose of EMDR is to alternately activate both the right and left hemispheres of the brain through either visual, tactile, auditory, or a combination of these stimuli. The bilateral stimulus “jumpstarts” the physiological information processing system inside of the brain. This allows the clinician to work with the patient in processing distressing experiences and associated memories, thoughts, feelings, and body sensations in a more organized way. The therapy will work to desensitize or “neutralize” undesirable symptoms the patient experiences resulting from traumatic experiences through the combination of dialogue with the clinician and stimulation that the patient receives over time. As an added bonus, many patients report that these symptoms often do not return or are quite significantly diminished to much more manageable levels, because the brain and body have been able to work together in such a meaningful and connected manner. Additionally, EMDR treatment often takes much less time to complete than conventional psychotherapeutic treatment approaches, making it more cost effective for patients, while working well for busier lifestyles.

  1. What can patients expect from EMDR therapy?

Let’s face it, coming to someone to share very sensitive and important information which may have made us feel any combination of vulnerable, scared, hurt, embarrassed, ashamed, unloved, or unsafe can seem quite daunting and even downright impossible. This is why a more current clinical approach to EMDR treatment involves adequately preparing patients to process distressing concerns at their own pace, by ensuring that their feelings of safety and ability to regulate strong feelings and sensations confidently and successfully are first met. When the patient and clinician decide that it is time to move forward with reprocessing traumatic events, this too is done with the patient always in control of his or her treatment. The clinician will work with the patient at his or her pace and build toward the desensitization and reprocessing of traumatic experiences thoroughly and completely, when ready. Your clinician will take great care in getting to know you, on your terms. Afterall, the purpose of receiving treatment is to feel better, right? Your clinician knows this and wants you to feel as comfortable as possible throughout the treatment experience. EMDR treatment is like a “workout” for your brain as strengthening and resiliency gradually occur, so some stronger feelings or sensations may arise from time to time, which is completely normal and oftentimes an indicator that the treatment is working. If at any point a patient feels that a “break” from reprocessing is needed for any reason, your clinician will listen to you and facilitate this.

  1. What behavioral health conditions does EMDR treat?

EMDR has been utilized for rather expansive treatment populations and symptom concerns with high success. EMDR can be used with children, adolescents, and adults. Some conditions and areas which are commonly treated in EMDR include: Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD), panic attacks, phobias, nightmares, performance and social anxiety, complicated grief, adjustment disorders, disturbing memories, stress reduction, decision-making, sexual and/or physical abuse, neglect, pain, somatic disorders, personality disorders, as well as part of addiction treatment. 

  1. What other treatments can patients use alongside EMDR?

EMDR itself utilizes an Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model approach to treatment. However, EMDR therapy integrates elements of other psychological theories and psychotherapies (i.e. Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Mind-Body, Person-Centered, etc.) into a standardized set of procedures and clinical protocols. At Barbour Behavioral Health, EMDR is also oftentimes incorporated with our neurobehavioral patients also receiving certain types of neurotherapies.

  1. Does EMDR work for everyone?

EMDR works well with most patients, however there can be various clinical factors which would make EMDR an ineffective or inappropriate treatment approach for certain individuals. If EMDR is not determined to be the best treatment approach for you by your licensed clinician, other treatment or clinical recommendations will be discussed. 

Our talented team is always working hard to make sure we have solutions for every individual who comes into our clinic. For more information on EMDR therapy or to schedule an appointment with one of our Behavioral Health providers, call Barbour Community Health Association at 304-823-2800.

Talking about Teen Depression with Linh Pham, LGSW

Talking about teen depression with Linh pham, lgsw

Depression is a disease that does not discriminate. It can severely affect anyone at any time in their life. And since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are struggling with the effects of depression.

About 20 percent of teens experience depression before they reach adulthood and only about 30 percent are being treated for the disease. These numbers are staggering and heartbreaking.

As a behavioral health therapist, I have worked with teens who have struggled with depression, and I have talked with families who missed the signs that their teen was suffering.

I don’t point fingers at parents because these signs can be difficult to see as many symptoms can mimic “teenagers being teenagers.” However, parents need to know when it’s time to intervene.

Some of the signs I tell parents to look out for include low energy, low self-esteem, eating and sleeping disturbances, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and hopelessness. If you find your teen is not enjoying activities they used to or if your teen is isolating from others that can be a major sign. If your teen is showing signs of excessive work, anger issues, slacking off in school or ‘masking’—acting as if everything is fine, it may be time for you to chat with your teen about what’s going on.

What can lead a teen into depression?

There’s a number of factors that should be considered, like low self-esteem.
Low self-esteem can be caused from lacking a healthy support system—many teens don’t have a person they can trust and share their struggling stories with. Sometimes friends can’t be trusted as they are seen as “fake,” and teens are not talking with parents because they would feel that they would be ‘yelled’ at or dismissed. Which I find disheartening. Teens need somebody to tell them, “it will be okay,” that they are doing their best, that they are beautiful and kind.

Teens in the foster care system are at risk of low self-esteem and depression also. It is hard to keep track of all the changes as teens move from one home to another. In time, they lose the sense of who they are, where they belong and how their future would look. This makes it difficult for them to feel good about themselves in their current situation.

Bullying can lead to low esteem. Teens suffering from bullying are made fun of by classmates who are immature, lacking empathy, and kindness to others.

Social media has a huge impact on the way teens feel about themselves. Constantly comparing yourself to others can certainly lead anyone to poor self-esteem.

Sibling rivalry is a common situation that can lead to teens feeling bad about themselves. Siblings often compare each other on their academic performance, sport, hobbies, friends, etc.

Athletes can also struggle with low esteem. These are the ones that usually are seen as confident, strong, ‘cool kids,’ but they struggle so much to live up to that, together with strict practice and diet routine that time and meeting expectations from various people.

Creating a positive home environment for your teen.

A teen’s environment at home and the way their family interacts with one another can lead to depression and other forms of mental illnesses. Teens need a healthy routine in place and a family atmosphere that enjoys experiencing life together rather than ‘just sitting around.’

Teens need a balance of responsibility in the house. What I usually see is the teen either doesn’t have any responsibility in the house or constantly get nagged for not finishing everything on their chore list.

Teens struggling with their parents’ divorce or separation, being taken away from family due to civil CPS cases, moving between foster homes, and changing schools can all lead to mental struggles.

Meeting a parent’s expectations.

Teens suffering from depression usually prefer to do what they think their parents or caregivers want them to do. This can lead to teens stressing out easily as soon as they recognize they don’t do things good enough whether it be academic performance, sports, or any other extracurricular activities.

Sometimes depression in teens can be hereditary. Especially in West Virginia, it is very common for depression to run in the family.

I often get asked, when or how do I approach my teen if I think they are depressed.

It’s important to reach out when you notice your teen’s behavior is ‘off.’ Signs such as eating less or more, sleeping too much, or having a hard time sleeping/falling asleep/staying asleep, getting ‘moody’ more than normal or getting agitated/angry more easily than normal with more intensity, if you find they are isolating themselves more than normal, their grades dropping, if you notice your teen wearing long sleeve shirts, long pants, hoodies in an inappropriate weather temperature they could be self-harming and trying to hide something like cutting marks mean it is time to get your teen help.

If you are not sure about how your teen is doing, you can approach their friends, ask school staff (bus driver, secretary), ask teachers, school counselor/therapist/social worker, and even the principal to see how you child is doing.

How to get your teen help?

• If your teen already has an established primary care physician, make an appointment for a wellness checkup and general assessments for depression and anxiety and referral to behavioral health.

• Parents or teens can also talk with a school counselor or principal for resources of school-based behavioral health services.

• Look for community behavioral health agencies, like the Barbour County Health Association’s Behavioral Health team, and make an appointment for intake.

If you have questions or concerns about your teen, please reach out to your provider for info on the next steps to get your teen help.

5 Tips When Beginning Therapy

5 Tips When Beginning Therapy

Starting therapy for mental health needs can seem like a giant step. Lots of people don’t know where to begin or who to talk to and continue to suffer in silence. That does not have to be you. The staff at the Barbour Community Health Association understands that starting therapy can be difficult but we’re here to help you on your mental health journey. That’s why we’re sharing our five best tips to remember when beginning therapy.

I don’t know where to start.

1. Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) or reach out to a Mental Health Provider

You see your primary care provider for all health concerns, remember that your mental and emotional health are just as important when achieving overall health and wellness. Bring up mental health concerns during regular check-ups or visits and check-in with your PCP about your mental health regularly.

If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about approaching your PCP, call or check-in with a mental health provider that you trust. Bridging the gap and having clear and open communication with your PCP or Mental Health Provider is the first step to getting and receiving the care you need.

Mental health is an integral part of health care. In many health care settings today, you may be asked if you’re feeling anxious or depressed, or if you have had recent thoughts of suicide. Take this opportunity to talk to your PCP or Mental Health Provider openly so they can help refer you to a Mental Health Specialist in your area. You also can visit the National Institute of Mental Health’s Find Help page for assistance with finding a health care provider or treatment that’s right for you.

I’m not prepared or don’t know what to say.

2. Prepare before your visit

When in an appointment setting, many people forget questions or concerns they wanted to discuss with their care provider. Think of your questions or concerns beforehand, and write them down and bring them with you when you go to your next appointment. It’s also good practice to prepare a list of any medications you are currently on. It’s important to tell your health care provider about all the medications you’re taking on a regular basis, including over-the-counter (nonprescription) drugs, herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements because they can affect the way your body reacts to certain medications.

Remember to also review your family health history with your provider. Certain mental illnesses tend to run in families, and having a close relative with mental health needs could mean you’re at a higher risk for some of those concerns. It also can help your health care provider recommend actions for reducing your risk and enable both you and your provider to look for early warning signs.

I feel alone.

3. Consider bringing a relative or close friend to your appointment

Sometimes it’s helpful to bring a close friend or relative that you trust to your appointment. It can be difficult to absorb all the information your health care provider shares, especially if you are not feeling well. Your companion can be there for support, help you take notes, and remember what you and the provider discussed. They also might be able to offer input to your provider about how they think you’re doing.

I’m not sure if I have any mental health needs.

4. Be honest with your providers

Your health care provider can help you get better only if you have clear and honest communication. It is important to remember that communications between you and a health care provider are private and confidential and cannot be shared with anyone without your expressed permission. Describe all your symptoms with your provider, and be specific about when they started, how severe they are, and how often they occur. You also should share any major stresses or recent life changes that could be triggering symptoms.

Examples of symptoms include:
● Persistent sadness, anxiousness, or “empty” moods
● Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
● Irritability
● Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
● Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
● Decreased energy or fatigue
● Moving or talking more slowly
● Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
● Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
● Unusual sleep patterns including difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
● Appetite or weight changes (or both)
● Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
● Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause

I’m not sure if this treatment plan is right for me.

5. Ask questions and stay informed

If you have questions or even doubts about a diagnosis or treatment your health care provider gives, ask for more information and discuss your concerns with your providers. If your provider suggests a treatment you’re not comfortable or familiar with, express your worries and ask if there are other options. It’s okay to disagree with your provider on what treatment to try. You may decide to try a combination of different approaches. You may also want to get another opinion from a different health care provider, which is okay. It’s important to remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” treatment. You may need to try a few different treatments, or a combination of treatments, before finding one that works best for you.

Taking care of your mental and emotional health is just as important—if not more important—when taking care of yourself. Beginning therapy can seem like a big task but remember to give yourself credit for taking the leap into mental wellness.

Start the conversation today by calling our Behavioral Health team at 304.823.4000.

Prepare Your Child for a Safe School Year with These Tips

Prepare Your Child for a Safe SCHOOL YEAR with These Tips

This year has certainly been a challenging one. With the spread of COVID-19, Americans have had to make changes and adjustments in their day-to-day life. From losing their job or working from home to limit the spread, many have had to make sacrifices to keep themselves and loved ones safe.

Now, it is back-to-school season, and many are on edge about returning to “normal”, or more so adjusting to a new normal. Both students and parents/guardians are going through the emotions and thoughts that are “let’s get back to school” but also “how do we keep our kids safe?”

As the school year is quickly approaching, here are some tips on how to ease your mind and prepare your child for a safe semester.

 

  1. Prepare your child for a new set up.

Many school districts are implementing new regulations to keep students, teachers, and staff safe and well. School rooms and lunch areas may look different with safeguards in place. It’s probable that students will not be able to gather or converse next to each other and after school activities may be limited as well. Explain to your child that these procedures are only to limit and prevent the spread of COVID-19. These new changes may be difficult for your child to adapt to, but it’s important that they understand the reasoning behind the regulations.

 

2. Promote mask wearing.

The CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask or face covering to limit the spread of COVID-19. Masks may slow the spread of the virus and keep people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Because of the CDC recommendations, many school systems require that students, teachers, and staff wear a mask when in the building. This can be frustrating to students, especially younger children. Explain to your child that mask wearing is a necessity for their safety and their family’s. There are tons of masks available with various prints and designs to accentuate your child’s style. Perhaps, allow your child to choose a few of their favorites for the school year.

 

3. Educate your child on social distancing & proper hygiene.

As schools begin to open, physical distancing from others will be a top priority for school administration. Like mask wearing, you should educate your child on the importance of social distancing. If you’ve been following the CDC guidelines, social distancing should not be new to your child; however, it may be difficult for them to grasp in a school setting. Explain that physical distancing is just as critical in school as it is in a grocery store and will keep them, their friends, favorite teachers, and family safe.

Regular hand washing should also be encouraged, especially since school is back in session. Send your child to school with their own personal hand sanitizer and explain that they should use it often when hand washing is not available.

 

4. Listen to your child’s concerns.

This school year can be scary for many. Parents have their concerns about their child’s safety and education. But understand that your child also has their own worries. If your child is expressing concern, listen and try to ease their worries. Also, it should be noted that some school districts are allowing students to take courses online. This may be an alternative option to consider that can benefit your child and your family as well. 

 

There’s no doubt that 2020 has been quite a year for the books. And with the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., many are still left uncertain about the rest of the year and the following years. With that said, many are preparing to adjust to a new set up — jobs, income, home care and school.

We hope these tips will help you prepare for the upcoming modified school year.

Telehealth Appointments – What You Need to Know

Telehealth Appointments – What You Need to Know

Like many health clinics across the nation, Barbour Community Health Association has begun offering telehealth services to its patients. Through virtual doctor visits, patients are given the option to converse with their provider about medical concerns via video chat or phone. These services allow patients to still feel connected to providers while practicing social distancing and staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We sat down with Jennifer Burner, MHA, PA-C, Clinical Director, Director of Quality Improvement & Risk Management, to find out more about telemedicine and how useful the resource is during these unprecedented times.

 

Q: What is telehealth?

A: Telehealth has been around for years, but many providers have been slow to adopt these methods due to spotty access, but also because of limited insurance coverage for care. Telehealth allows providers to care for and protect patients and BCHA staff during COVID-19.

Q: What telehealth options are available through BCHA?

A: We offer two different services with BCHA for telehealth. We offer a virtual telephone visit — similar to a telephone encounter that you’ve had with your provider in the past. Your provider can speak with you briefly for five minutes to determine if you need to be seen in person or they can speak to you over a longer course of time to discuss chronic disease or other issues you may be having.

We also offer a video conferencing or video chat appointment, and basically, it’s an online video meeting with your provider. It’s live and a real time visit where you can see your provider on your screen and your provider can see you. You can do it through a smartphone, a tablet and a home computer as long as you have a camera.

Q: What medical concerns can be seen by a provider via telehealth?

A: Anything that can be examined through video can be done through a telehealth appointment. One thing we can’t do is if you have a problem and we need a specific medical tool to diagnose you — for instance, if you have an earache, we can’t look at your ear through a video visit.

However, a lot of other conditions, like a rash, discussing chronic disease like diabetes or hypertension,  can discussed through a telehealth appointment.

Behavioral health patients can also use telehealth to speak to their therapists and counselors. It’s confidential and private, but there’s still that connection that you get face to face.

Q: Who can participate in the telehealth appointments?

A: Any patient can participate. If the patient is a minor, they’ll need to have a guardian with them and the guardian will have to give consent for the visit.

Q: How secure are telehealth visits?

A: We use a platform called UpDox and it’s a video chat that allows BCHA to offer secure communications with patients. It is very secure, and we also have a very strict consent policy where the patient is made aware of anybody who may be in the room. However, we do not let anybody in the room when we’re doing a video chat. We’ve put a lot of measures in place to make sure we’re protecting our patients’ privacy when we do these calls.

Q: What do I need to do to begin telehealth and get connected with my provider?

A: You can call your provider’s office and speak to registration and just let them know that you would like to set up a telehealth visit — whether that be a telehealth call or video chat.

 

To schedule a telehealth appointment, call Belington Medical Clinic at 304-823-2800 or Myers Clinic at 304-457-2800.

When you call to make an appointment, a BCHA representative will inform you of available telehealth appointments and if a healthcare provider can assist you via telehealth depending on your medical needs/concerns.

Don’t go it alone: Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety from COVID-19

Don’t go it alone: Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety from COVID-19

Guest Blogger: Jamie Wilson, LPC

If someone told us last year that we would be confined to our homes and fighting a pandemic in 2020 would we have believed them? I sure would not have. But here we are. West Virginians are strong and resilient, but if you feel stressed or anxious about what is going on in the world you are not alone. In March a survey done by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that over one-third of Americans report their mental health has been seriously impacted by coronavirus and 59% state it has had an effect on their daily lives. The good news is there are things we can do each day to combat that stress and anxiety.

Signs of Stress
Being able to recognize the signs of stress can be vital for those who surround you. Stress can manifest itself in both physical and emotional ways. Remember, those closest to us often see these things before we do. So, if a family member or friend voices concern, try and listen. Here are a few common signs and symptoms of stress to look out for in both yourself and others:

  • Sleep difficulties
  • Appetite changes
  • Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Muscle Tension
  • Irritability
  • Depressed Mood
  • Lack of Interest in Previously Enjoyed Activities
  • Persistent Worry

Coping Skills
There are so many ways people can deal with stress, it’s important to have healthy ways to cope. If you or someone you know is experiencing increased stress, here are a variety of self-care activities they can participate in to help calm their bodies and minds:

  • Sticking to A Consistent Daily Schedule
  • Taking Breaks to Breathe and Relax through Meditation or Stretching
  • 20-30 minutes of Light Exercise
  • Fueling Your Body Through Proper Nutrition
  • Encouraging Healthy Brain Activity Through Reading, Arts & Crafts, and other Creative Ventures
  • Maintaining Social Connection Through Phone Calls, E-Mails, or Online Video Chats with Friends and Family
  • Avoid Numbing Agents such as Alcohol or Drugs

Additional Support
If you find yourself still feeling stressed after trying the above tips, or if you have a mental health condition and your symptoms are increasing, please reach out for help. You are not alone, and you do not have to go through it alone.

Healthcare Worker Burnout – How Much is Too Much?

Healthcare Worker Burnout - How Much is Too Much?

Guest Blogger: Jamie Wilson, Barbour Community Health Association LPC

Every day, healthcare workers of all kinds put themselves in harm’s way in order to do what they feel called to do, assist others. Our current situation has shed a new light on these amazing individuals and the sacrifices they make daily to do their jobs. Unfortunately, their work also bares the risk for becoming stressed or overwhelmed, particularly in times of crisis much like our current state.

When a healthcare worker becomes overwhelmed to the point where they are unable to perform their duties, it is often referred to as burnout. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality defines burnout as “a long-term stress reaction marked by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of sense of personal accomplishment.” Recognizing and addressing burnout is not only important for the wellbeing of our healthcare workers, but also for the patients who are depending on them for safe and effective care. So how do you know if you or someone you work with is experiencing burnout and what can you do to fix it?

While every individual brain and body is different, there are some common signs of burnout to look for in both ourselves and others. Physical signs may include:

  • Freezing
  • Unresponsiveness/Distracted/Dissociation
  • Darting Vision
  • Hypervigilance
  • Restlessness
  • Exaggerated Startle Response
  • Sensory Sensitivity
  • Avoidance Behaviors
  • Reckless/Self-Destructive Behaviors
  • Sleep Difficulties
  • Preoccupation with Exit Strategies/Physical positioning
  • Frequent Somatic Complaints

We may also experience emotional signs and changes such as:

  • Diminished Interest in Activities
  • Irritability/Anger Outbursts
  • Persistent Negativity
  • Mood Swings
  • Emotional Sensitivity
  • Rigidness and Inability to Adapt to or Accept Change
  • Cognitive Distancing or Operating on Auto-Pilot

If you or someone you know is experiencing burnout, there are strategies and resources available to help restore them to a healthier state.

Relaxation and emotional regulatory activities such as meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery encourage activity in the frontal lobe of our brains. The result allows for increases in concentration, memory, and rational thought.

Basic self-care in the form of eating, sleeping, physical activity, and social connection is also important to both preventing and treating burnout. Keeping a consistent schedule each day with regards to these basic activities allows our brains and bodies to know what to expect and when. In uncertain times such as these, something as small as knowing when you will be eating or sleeping can be comforting and provide a sense of normalcy within the daily routine.

If you are concerned for a co-worker, there are options for how to appropriately guide them to help. If you feel comfortable approaching them directly, do so with clear intentions of genuine concern. Simply stating, “I know this is a difficult time and I just want to check in with you and see how you’re doing” can go a long way. Give them some time to process your question and their own feelings, as they may not realize the potentially harmful state they are in.  

If your concern isn’t well-received or you don’t feel it appropriate to approach the person directly, address your concerns to your supervisor to ensure they are getting the help they need.

Last, but certainly not least, remember to be kind and patient with both ourselves and others. Everyone will have good days and bad days, and that is okay. Staying focused on the light at the end of the tunnel can help to stay on track through these difficult, but temporary times.

Starting Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic

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. 

5 Tips for a Healthy Finals Week

5 Tips for a Healthy Finals Week

Most students take final exams seriously. After all, final exams reflect a student’s performance for the semester’s coursework and are a sign that holiday break is in the near future.

But late-night study sessions, skipping meals and eating not-so-healthy quick snacks can really play a role in your academics. Think of it this way — if you’re not feeling your best (sluggish, exhausted, etc.) then you won’t perform your best (acing those tests)!

But no worries, Alderson Broaddus’ Wellness Center has tips on how to stay healthy and motivated while preparing for finals.

 

  1. Sleep, sleep and more sleep!

Sleep is so important, especially when you’re preparing for an upcoming exam. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a restful sleep improves learning, attention, and problem-solving ability. Young adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. During finals week, try not to disrupt your normal sleep routine by pulling all-nighters.

2. Eat right, feel better.

Eating a well-balanced meal and foods that boost productivity will become your study buddy as you tackle exams. Avocados, nuts, berries and dark chocolate will give you that extra brain power every student need during exam week.

 

3. Chill out.

It might seem that you have to constantly be on the grind with studying, but that’s not true. You don’t want to burn yourself out before the day of the test. Be sure to take 50 to 90-minute rest periods in between each study session.

 

4. Stay hydrated.

During finals week, it’s unwise to overindulge in coffee and energy drinks as it’s not good for the body and typically leads to an energy crash. Instead, it’s recommended to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Water is good for you and will give you the energy you so desperately need!

5. Get movin’!

In between study sessions, take a walk, hit the gym for some light cardio or take a yoga class to relax. Just get those bones moving and the blow flowing! Exercise will help you focus and give you an energy boost!

Finals week is a stressful time, but don’t let unhealthy tendencies get in the way of you passing those tests! With these tips, you’ll be rejoicing over the holiday break with good grades and a happy body and mind!