Mental health concerns have arisen from quarantine: Let’s talk about it

Mental health concerns have arisen from quarantine: Let’s talk about it

Over the past year and a half, the pandemic has shed an immense amount of light on the importance of maintaining, caring for and talking about mental health. Celebrities, political figures and everyday professionals have opened up about challenges and successes surrounding their mental well-being, which was not common in the years leading up to 2020. It’s relieving to see that this openness has reduced much of the stigma attached to mental illness and seeking help from a professional. 

As the ways we navigate the world during the pandemic continue to evolve, so do our mental health needs. Below, we break down a few current challenges.

Unhealthy habits 

The pandemic puts a strain on our ability to healthily cope, as many coping mechanisms just aren’t available during lockdowns. Without access to gyms, yoga studios, coffee shops, live music and more, many have turned to coping mechanisms such as drinking excessively, eating excessively, scrolling social media excessively, etc. It’s difficult to surrender those unhealthy habits after you’ve grown dependent on or even addicted to them. 

Lost time

More than an entire year passed while we were in quarantine, and many are starting to feel the need to potentially go overboard in …

Back to school: Should I be worried about my child?

Back to school: Should I be worried about my child?

This past year, families have navigated altered routines, lockdowns, lack of social activities and so much more – we’ve been in a constant state of flux. As children across the nation return to in-person learning, they’re likely going to experience social hurdles. For many, the behavioral patterns and routines that were taught to them pre-pandemic must be remodeled, retaught and relearned. 

After months of remote learning, students’ routines are now taking another 180º turn. This change may be upsetting and scary for children – and that’s OK. There are steps you can take to ease your child’s stress, fear and anxiety as they embark upon a new, unfamiliar school year.

Create a safe space for open communication. 

Above all else, your child needs to know that they are loved and heard. Ensure they know they can come to you with any concerns – no matter how large or small. By instilling this practice from a young age, your child learns how to appropriately recognize and express emotions in the moment. If your child has developed unusual behavior tendencies, take the time to break down the problem and find effective solutions and coping mechanisms. 

Remain consistent. 

All positive behaviors need continued practice …

September 13, 2019 – Understanding the Impact of Perinatal Mental Health & Substance Use on the Parent Child Relationship

Presented by:
Heather Biedrzycki, LMHC, CEID, Program Director, Early Childhood, South Bay Community Services, Lowell.
Kelly Petravicz, M.Ed., CEIS, Program Director, Early Childhood, South Bay Community Services, Lawrence

September 13, 2019
U Mass Lowell Inn & Conference Center
50 Warren Street, Lowell, MA.

Registration: 8:30am-9:00am
Training: 9am-12pm    1:00-4:00pm
Lunch: 12:00-1:00pm (on your own)

RSVP by September 1, 2019
Susan Spieler at South Bay Community Services, 1115 West Chestnut Street, Brockton, MA 02301.
Email: [email protected]
Please provide: name, agency, phone and email

There is no charge for this training, however pre-registration is required. In case of weather cancellation a message will be left with our answering service.

Credits: Applications have been made for 5.5 continuing education credits for Social Workers, LADCs, LMFTs, and LMHCs. Please note individuals seeking NASW or CADAC CEUs are required by their licensing boards to attend the full length of the program.

South Bay Community Services maintains responsibility for the program and it’s content. Phone (508)559-0473 to request further information regarding education objectives or faculty credentials. Participants needing special accomodations should phone ahead to identify their needs…

November 15, 2019 – Gender and the Therapeutic Relationship

Presented by:
Amy Walliser: LMHC, LPCC, Clinic Director, South Bay Community Services, Dorchester
William Dempsey, LCSW, and Amanda Kalander, MSW
Clinicians, South Bay Community Services, Dorchester

November 15, 2019
Courtyard Marriott
300 River Ridge Dr, Norwood, MA.

Registration: 8:30am-9:00am
Training: 9:00am-12pm    12:45-4:00pm
Lunch: 12:00-1:00pm (on your own)

RSVP by November 1, 2019
Susan Spieler at South Bay Community Services, 1115 West Chestnut Street, Brockton, MA 02301
Email [email protected]
Please provide: name, agency, phone, and email

There is no charge for this training, however, pre-registration is required. In case of weather cancellation a message will be left with our answering service.

Credits: Applications have been made for 5.5 continuing education credits for Social Workers, LADCs, LMFTs, and LMHCs. Please note individuals seeking NASW or CADAC CEUs are required by their licensing boards to attend the full length of the program.

South Bay Community Services maintains responsibility for the program and it’s content. Phone (508)559-0473 to request further information regarding education objectives or faculty credentials. Participants needing special accomodations should phone ahead to identify their needs.…