The Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the way we live, work and play. Kids’ Minds Matter and Lee Health want you to know how much we appreciate your support and that we are committed to assisting children and families through this unprecedented time.
We are continuing to see high risk patients in the office as deemed appropriate by the provider. Generally, that consists of patients that have severe depression or other conditions where other mediums are not appropriate. However, whenever possible, we are completing sessions virtually. We are utilizing phone calls and video-therapy to continue services. Each provider is reaching out to their caseload to provide preventative support in addition to therapy. We have been working with others to improve access to services and address other hurdles as they arise, and triaging patients to provide immediate help to those most in need.
We are working closely with our school partners, staying in close contact with school administration and staff. We are changing to teleconference or video conferencing when appropriate. Kids’ Minds Matter is hosting the School Mental Health Coalition later this month via teleconference.
Our Mental Health Care Navigators are contacting families through phone or electronic means and are in direct contact with families when necessary. In the latter circumstance, they are wearing masks and following Golisano Children’s Hospital guidelines for public facing services, hand washing, and use of hand sanitizer. Sadly, it is clear the needs of these families have only increased per force of the current situation.
In an effort to keep our families safe and healthy, while still providing them with education/services, we are:
- Providing Parent Support Groups via conference call;
- Exploring digital and online options for Parent Workshops and Classes;
- Reaching out to media to communicate mental health/self-care messages;
- Maintaining communication with partners to see how we can collaborate during this period of transition;
- Working to adapt and innovate in our public education components.
We can all do our part, whether its reaching out to a friend on social media, picking up the phone, or sending a card or text. Below are some resources we hope will help you and those you love take care of their mental health. Thank you again for your support. We are stronger together!
Mental Health Resources
- CDC Resources: Tips for managing Anxiety & Stress for Providers, Parents, First Responders & People Who Have Been Released from Quarantine.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html - Tips for Social Distancing, Quarantine & Isolation During an Infectious Disease Outbreak.
https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/tips-social-distancing-quarantine-isolation-031620.pdf - Tips for Caregivers, Parents, & Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreak.
https://store.samhsa.gov/product/Talking-With-Children-Tips-for-Caregivers-Parents-and-Teachers-During-Infectious-Disease-Outbreaks/PEP20-01-01-006 - Tips for Health Care Practitioners to Help with Grief After a Disaster or Traumatic Event.
https://store.samhsa.gov/product/Tips-for-Health-Care-Practitioners-and-Responders-/sma17-5036
* SAMHSA Disaster Distress Hotline: Toll Free -1-800-985-5990 (English & Spanish.) TTY: 1-800-846-8517 * SAMHSA National Helpline: Toll Free – 1-800-662-HELP (24/7 Treatment Referral Information Service in English & Spanish) * National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Toll Free -1-800-273-TALK. TTY: 1-800-779-4TTY (4889)
