Written by Roselle M. Ungar, CFRE, Executive Director
Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans
As we face this time of great upheaval, it is essential to prioritize our mental health. Many health experts are concerned that, without our normal schedules and access to mental health professionals compounding unprecedented events, many people are not seeking out the care they need or are accustomed to receiving. They warn us that, alongside the health crisis of coronavirus, a mental health crisis is playing out in our homes.
According to MentalHealth.gov, our mental health “includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.” As our country grapples with the stultifying challenges of a global pandemic and nationwide protests, feelings of fear, anger, depression, anxiety, paranoia, sadness, and panic are not unexpected consequences. While our personal reactions to current events may vary, we all need to check in with ourselves and, perhaps, check out a form of counseling.
Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans is accepting new clients, and we’re currently offering telemental health counseling. In addition to checking in with a mental health professional, our therapists offer some tips to prioritize your mental health.
- Limit news & media intake.
- Spend time outside, and be sure to exercise.
- Maintain good sleep hygiene.
- Maintain a routine as best you can.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Take time to relax, whether that be sitting quietly or enjoying a hobby like playing music or meditating.
- Call family and friends. If you’re not yet able to see family and friends in person, call them. Hearing their voice will provide more feelings of connection than a simple text.
If you’re interested in speaking with a JFS therapist, get in touch with us: (504) 831-8475 or jfs@jfsneworleans.org. Follow our social media channels for more tips: @jfsnola on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
