I’m writing to you during these uncertain and stressful times to let you know that as overwhelming as the world seems right now, the Mom’s Wellbeing community is here to provide the support, encouragement, and skills necessary to help you manage the rapid changes that are happening in our world.
As a licensed clinical psychologist who has provided support and therapy to moms, dads, children, and families during times of significant stress for the past twenty-five years, please note that one of the most important things you can do right now is to allow yourself to feel and utilize healthy coping skills to manage stress and overwhelm.
Right now we are isolated physically from one another, in ways we have never experienced. This is overwhelming, uncertain and anxiety-producing. While we can’t change what is happening, what we can do is take care of ourselves and support one another emotionally.
Whatever you are currently experiencing emotionally – shock, disbelief, fear, anxiety, overwhelm, sadness, or anger – maybe some or all of these emotions, you are not alone. I am witnessing a range of emotional reactions while supporting clients in therapy and in managing my own emotions as a mom, wife, and daughter.
Some days it can be so overwhelming and stressful.
While so much emphasis is on taking care of our physical health, reducing and slowing the spread of COVID-19, which is essential, I want to remind you that your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health right now. Taking care of and managing your emotions during this crisis is not an option; it is an essential part of coping with the changes in your home, community, and the greater world. And I want you to know; I am here for you.
As in any crisis, we are being asked to alter our lives. As a nation and throughout the world, we are being asked to distance ourselves from one another and self-quarantine. We must stay at home and only go out for necessities or for essential work. Understandably, all of these changes impact our own, and our family’s, mental health.
As a clinical psychologist, I will be sharing information, skills, and strategies to take care of yourself and your family. I will be sharing blog posts, videos, and conducting question and answer sessions to help you navigate taking care of your mental health during these uncertain times.
Be sure to follow me over on my social media handles @MomsWellBeing on Instagram and Facebook. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have specific questions that I can share my perspective with you.
And if you’re looking for some inspiration on what you can do right now to take care of yourself, please check out some of these posts:
Stressed? Here are 5 Quick Fixes to Feel Better
8 Strategies to Bring Quiet to Motherhood
9 Ways to Be a Mindful Parent When You’re Stressed
Sending you strength and hope, Dr. Claire
© Dr. Claire Nicogossian 2020