Whether you are eager or not to return to work, companies are beginning the shift back to at least a partial week in the office. Many employers feel that face to face interaction helps with communication and camaraderie.
The Dreaded Return to Work
You may feel different. You may feel as though you were thriving and far more productive at home. Certainly, you didn’t have the commute time to worry about. You may have preferred the virtual environment.
Looking Forward to Normal
Or maybe you are looking forward to the office. Juggling online meetings, children, meals, etc. made it hard to concentrate. When you are in business mode, it can be hard to shift gears when the children are home and in need of attention.
Anxiety over the Return
Whether or not the return is welcome, aspects of the return to work will not be the same and will raise feeling of anxiety. Roughly 70% of workers are concerned of the return with the majority worried about exposure to COVID and fear of getting sick.
When we experience change, we tend to become resourceful and adapt to the new situation. Many of us were forced to create a virtual office in our home, whether that was a spare room or the dining room table, we made it happen. Now, as we transition to what was the previous normal, it will not be the same. Mask requirements are still in effect, we need to be careful in community areas, wash or sanitize our hands whenever we touch the coffee pot, and perhaps even have our temperatures taken as we enter the office.
Companies that are preparing to transition their employees back into the office need to recognize all the concerns that this raises for their employees. A great way to do this to build a hybrid work model that introduces the in-office requirements slowly and complement this with a rotational work schedule to minimize the number of employees in the office at any one time. This phased approach will help employees work out day care or babysitting concerns as well as allow employees to maintain a properly spaced work environment for safety.
Other actions employers can take is to install sanitizing stations around the office, focusing on entrances and community areas such as the break room and conference room. Employing good cleaning services for the office, policies for visitors, and good communication about these policies is paramount.
Planning to Reopen
OSHA provides some guidance for safe and healthful working conditions – in their Guidance on Returning to Work. As many employees have been working from home for over a year now, it is important that the return be well-orchestrated. Communication is the most important aspect of a safe return and will serve to minimize anxiety for all involved. As everyone’s personal situation is different, some may have much more anxiety than others about the safety of the move back to the office.
If you or a co-worker are experiencing feeling of anxiety over the return to work, reach out to us for personalized counseling. We offer six convenient locations as well as teletherapy via text, video, or phone. Let us help you start your journey back to the office with a positive mental attitude!!!
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
As the pandemic continues, we are seeing the highest levels of anxiety and depression since we first learned about COVID-19 back in February of 2020. We have been sheltered with only essential businesses allowed to remain open. Many people have lost their jobs, and many businesses have been forced to close.
Even now as the vaccine is making its way through the “at risk” population, health care workers, and the education sector, we are still unable to fully open our doors. The vaccine, of sorts, is more of an instruction set to keep you safe, rather than an immunization and protection from spreading.
Loneliness and isolation are the new norm. Loved ones are dying of COVID and our elderly have been isolated from family for too long. Alarming numbers of children and teens are reporting thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Depression and anxiety have skyrocketed. Many areas around the country are not equipped to handle this mental crisis.
More children and adults have mental health concerns that are left untreated. Young people are struggling the most with over half of 11–17-year-olds reporting thoughts of suicide.
We Can Help
We must find a way to bring care and treatment to those who need it. Thanks to technology there is an answer to the unmet need for mental health treatment.
Teletherapy – Affordable & Convenient
Reach out to us, we can help. We offer personalized counseling and therapy via text, video, or phone. Many insurance companies are waving copays. Let us help you start your journey to better mental health!
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
The holidays have always been a time of high expectations, but for many people, the holiday season is not the most wonderful time of the year.
For many, the holidays are a spotlight on everything that is wrong, or difficult, or challenging. If you suffer from depression, it is likely that the holidays can contribute to feelings of sadness. If you have lost a job, the holidays are likely to be financially stressful as well. If you are lonely, then the experience of a holiday during shelter in place orders will not help your feelings of isolation.
For everyone, the holiday season will look different this year. Bars and restaurants are closed to gatherings; our entertainment options are minimal too. Many people have contracted COVID and we have reached a staggering 300,000+ deaths in our country alone. It can be difficult to cope with these changes, especially if the holidays were that special time when you connected with your loved ones.
Winter Blues
In the darker days of winter, many people feel sad, lethargic, and gloomy. The weather is colder and darker during these months keeping people inside more and enjoying life less. The holidays may make these winter blues even worse due to social distancing and shelter in place requirements.
Increased Stress & Anxiety
The holidays can increase stress and anxiety for even the healthiest people. For those who already have heightened anxiety, the holidays can be a dangerous trigger.
The same is true for stress. We all feel the stress of getting just the right gift for a loved one and making sure they are wrapped and delivered in time. Now we have the added consideration of mailing them as we cannot see our extended family and friends in person.
Managing Your Mental Health
The most important thing that you can do to manage your mental health is to acknowledge your feelings. If you are stressed, find ways to relax. If you are anxious, remove the tasks that are overwhelming.
At ACT Family Counseling, we acknowledge the challenges of COVID and mental health, especially during the holidays. This year has been difficult for many reasons and every person’s situation is unique.
Reach out to us for personalized counseling and therapy at any of our 6 convenient locations. Let us help you find peace and joy this holiday season and beyond.
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
It’s been a lonely and financially stressful year for many people. That has had far-reaching consequences on the mental health of everyone, from the young to the old. Day after day, it’s been a struggle, loss of jobs and the school year, strained relationships, and burnout. The fear, worry, and anxiety are enough to make anyone lose their mind.
At ACT Family Counseling, we have focused on providing personnel care, provided at one of our six locations. Use these self-care tips mental wellness during the pandemic…
Connect with peers
Social isolation can worsen the symptoms of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. In-person meetings are not possible now, so one should consider plugging into an online support group.
Online support groups provide a friendly and safe environment to share experiences. The platforms can help members cope and overcome substance abuse and anxiety in the short term. One will feel less lonely.
Breath, exercise, and practice mindfulness
It is a difficult time for everyone. There have been massive job losses and loss of income. Across the globe, people are worried and losing sleep over the declining ability to meet their essential needs and take care of the family.
Physical activity is vital to help you get your mind off things. It can give you a sense of purpose and a much-needed break from anxious thoughts. Combine that with breathing exercises and meditation for better relief.
Take a break from work
Remote working and parenting can be hard to juggle. There is a risk of burnout and emotional stress. These risks are felt even more by front line workers who, every day, come face to face with the worst of the pandemic. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle by getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding alcohol and substance abuse. Reach out for help.
Access to personnel therapy
Therapy may have been looked at as a luxury before, but not anymore. $425 million has been allocated to mental health and substance abuse under the CARES act. Insurance companies have also moved to include coverage for telehealth services. Anyone can start on a Family Counseling program even without having seen the professional in-person before, as was previously stipulated under Medicare. The requirement has been repealed.
At ACT Family Counseling, we acknowledge your difficulties. While this is a general guide, every person’s situation is unique. Reach out to us for personalized counseling and psychotherapy at six convenient locations. Let us help you find peace of mind and happiness.
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
When the world was ordered to work from home, many people were pleased about not having to drive to work. But reality dawned. Now, many parents wish that they could leave the house and go to work like the good old days. Remote working with kids around can be a major nightmare. As a work-from-home mom or dad, you take on multiple roles: your day job, parenting, teaching, and with restaurants closed, more cooking. Phew! That can be too much to handle. Here are a few ideas that might help.
Keep the children busy with lots of homework
Many children are still learning from home at this point during the pandemic. When it comes to home-schooling or remote schooling, you are either the teacher or the coordinator, so you must wear a different hat. Homework comes first before play. Set this boundary and help your child understand that you also need time to do your homework.
Don’t keep working after 5
When it’s time for family time, turn off your computer and give your kids and partner the attention they deserve. This is not just good for them; it will help you to unwind too. And given the infectious anxiety and worry that characterizes this period, talking to your family—venting—is critical for emotional wellbeing.
Designate a workplace and work time
When it’s time for work, get into the home office and lock the door behind you. Remove distractions so that you can work efficiently. Otherwise, failure to meet work deadlines and KPIs at this time can be a major contributor to stress and mental health problems.
Have time for yourself
Before the pandemic struck, you probably would pass by the gym or see a friend after work. You had an evening hobby and a favorite TV show. These things are important when it comes to mental health and overall wellbeing. Find ways to keep doing that by working out at home, going for a stroll, or talking to your friends online.
Get help with household chores
Encourage everyone to participate in household chores, including the children. Teach them to make their bed, pick up their dirty clothes, and straighten their room. Having one less thing on your to-do list can give you peace of mind.
Call for help when you need it
Sometimes we are strong enough, and we cope, but other times, we crash under it all. Such as when a child has ADHD or you are struggling with anxiety, bipolarity, or PTSD. We are here to help.
ACT Family Counseling provides counseling and psychotherapy services with six convenient locations. Connect with us and let us help you find the strength to live another day.
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
Dealing with the current chaotic environment is no easy task. Staying COVID safe when your friends are not can be challenging for everyone involved. With mixed messaging tossed about from every avenue imaginable, it can be difficult for many social butterflies to comprehend the need to stay on guard. How can you enjoy time spent with a dear friend and communicate your need for maintaining healthy social distances? Maybe you have someone at home who is particularly at risk; maybe you are. Just know, that you have socially distanced friends within reach who can help you stay COVID safe when your friends are not.
Counseling through the COVID Crisis
ACT Family Counseling offers you the perspective and prep you need to tackle tough topics. COVID shouldn’t be the reason to cancel pleasure in your life. You can enjoy the company of others in responsible, loving ways without the drama! But how? First, let’s chat about “communicating” clearly. Here are some tips for when you are trying to share your heart about staying COVID safe when your friends are not:
- Make open-ended inquiries
- Check non-verbal cues
- Set aside your “reading-mind” goggles
- Steer clear of blame games
Good communication creates lasting friendships. Need more guidance? ACT Family Counseling is ready to help!
Staying COVID Safe When Your Friends Are Not “CAN” Be a Positive Experience
It can be a definite positive to receive counseling from experts in communication. At ACT Family Counseling, we guide you toward your goals while keeping you safe. Our online counseling can help you find solutions to solve the complex challenges in your life. Staying COVID safe when others are not, especially when they are your friends, can be tough. You don’t want to offend, you don’t want to seem withdrawn, just safe yet social.
You can draw close to your friends from a safe distance. We can show you how by giving you the tools that will ensure your friends feel appreciated and you stay COVID safe!
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
800.801.8777
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
Few things in life can cause more tension than spending too much time with the same people. As days turn into weeks, and weeks into months, minor annoyances fester into major conflict. It doesn’t have to be that way. Fortunately, there are some strategies your family can adopt to preserve the harmony in your home until the COVID-19 pandemic is over and behind us.
- Hit the Pause Button.
Frustration is like a volcano. Pressure builds and builds until it finally erupts into an argument. Learn to recognize when your frustration levels are rising. Taking a deep breath and pausing for a few moments can help release the pressure.
- Talk Openly (& Listen)
Discuss your feelings with your family, and listen as they discuss how they feel. Conflict always involves more than one person, so everyone must understand the things they can do to ease the burden on one another.
- Cherish “Me” Time
Whether it’s a walk in the park or a drive through the woods, everyone needs time away. Get away from the house and enjoy some quiet time away from potential stressors.
- Establish House Rules
Rules help prevent conflict before it occurs. Rules should include quiet time for work and studies, dedicated family time, establishing which areas of the home are for work/study, and which are for play.
- Be Patient, and Be Kind
Please. Thank You. I appreciate your help. Simple words and kind phrases go a long way towards expressing gratitude and maintaining a conflict-free home.
ACT Family Counseling is here for you. Our counselors understand the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has created for families, and we can help you adopt strategies that will bring your family closer together. We encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment.
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
800.801.8777
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
Wearing face masks and observing social distancing is tough for adults, but it is even tougher for children. Getting a child to keep their face coverings on at the mall is difficult. What about at school where you are not always watching? And will they remember to maintain social distancing? Have the talk.
Tell them why
Talk to your child about returning to school during COVID 19. It will help them process their feelings and understand why all the safety precautions are necessary. Approach the discussion with empathy, and explain things in a straightforward manner:
- What COVID 19 is
- Why safety precautions are important
- How to stay safe at school
Acknowledge their feelings
Your child may have questions or even feel more anxious after this talk. Be ready to acknowledge their feelings. Reassure them that they are safe as long as they observe the safety guidelines. Remind them that millions of adults worldwide are working to find a solution to end the virus.
Anxiety
One thing that is heavy on your child’s mind is isolation. They will be anxious about not being able to socialize with friends. Help them to prepare for the social distancing mentally. Help them understand that they can talk to friends or even make more online.
Fear and frustration
Children might have fears of getting the virus when back in school. They may be reluctant to return to school. Emphasize the benefits of hand washing, social distancing, and face coverings. Remind the kids about the advantages of going back to school, learning new things, and seeing friends.
Personalize the talk
For your pre-school and school-age children, find exciting playful ways to drive the message home. Turn it into a song or dance, something memorable. On the other hand, teenagers can handle a lot more information and may ask many adult-level questions after the discussion.
We can help
Your child’s anxiety, fear, and frustration about returning to school during COVID should be addressed right away and provide an open line of communication throughout the entire school year. COVID 19 has increased the rate of mental illnesses, including anxiety disorder and depression. Take positive steps before serious issue develop.
At ACT Family Counseling, we can help. We offer teletherapy sessions via video, chat, and SMS. Let us help you and the child right where you are. Get started now.
ACT Family Counseling
6 Locations to Serve You
Apple Valley | Chino | Rancho Cucamonga | Redlands | Ontario | Victorville
800.801.8777
This article first appeared at ACT Teletherapy.com
CLICK HERE to learn more about Teletherapy and how you can connect via phone, text, or video.
