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Supporting Loved Ones Through Mental Health Challenges

by Ariela Paulsen May 19, 2020May 21, 2020
written by Ariela Paulsen
Supporting Loved Ones Through Mental Health Challenges

In this strange and unprecedented time, we are all experiencing heightened anxiety and feelings of depression.  We feel grief, fear, and uncertainty.  And many of us are separated from the support systems that have kept us going through tough times in the past.

Last month I wrote about the new empathy that society is feeling, as a whole, for the experience of chronic illness. I want to take this opportunity to think about mental illness through this lens.  One in five adults, and one in six youth, experience mental illness each year.  Most people in quarantine are struggling with feelings that these individuals experience on a daily basis.  When this pandemic is over, I hope we can all remember how this feels, and use it to fuel compassion for others.  

So what can we do, now and in the future, to support those we love?  

Reach out

A simple “How are ya?” or “thinking of you” can go such a long way.  If this is feeling daunting, don’t be ashamed.  Complicated emotions can come up when allowing yourself and someone else to experience vulnerability together.  But it can feel amazing once you get more comfortable!  If you need some tips, check out our guide for reaching out to loved ones.

Snail mail

Yes, really!  Mental health experts agree that anticipation of something good can have a positive impact on our psyche!  If you let someone know that you sent them something, they can look forward each day to knowing it’s coming, and then have the added bonus of receiving the item itself.  This can be anything — a hand-written letter, pictures from a good memory, a gift or card… the key is that whatever you send makes them feel loved and seen for who they are (this is why we created Mighty Well Gift Bundles!  There’s nothing quite like having someone acknowledge your strength as a chronic illness warrior!).

Set up a date

If you are able, set up an activity to do with them sometime in the near future.  This adds to the anticipation benefits, and the social interaction and mental distraction can go such a long way.  You could play a game, watch a comedy, cook a meal together, make some crafts, work out… even a 10 minute walk and catch up!  All of these activities are possible to do while social distancing.  You can connect over video calls or outside (keeping 6+ feet of distance and wearing a mask, of course 😉).  And remember, simply being outside has many mental health benefits!

Just because we have to isolate right now does not mean we have to go it alone.  And when this is all over, let’s remember those who are still experiencing mental illness.

Want more community and positive vibes in your life?  Join our Friends in the Fight facebook group!

Mental Health Resources:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org): We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. 1-800-273-8255 
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline (www.thehotline.org Learn more about how to stay safe at https://www.thehotline.org/2020/03/13/staying-safe-during-covid-19/.  For any victims and survivors who need support, we are here for you, 24/7. Call 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 for TTY, or if you’re unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522.
  • Empower Work (www.empowerwork.org) support for work questions, concerns, stress. Trained peer counselors are a text away: 510-674-1414 or webchat: empowerwork.org. Free, confidential, immediate. 
  • Coronavirus Online Therapy
    Short-term, free and reduced fee online therapy for those on the front line during the Coronavirus COVID-19 Pandemic.
    https://www.coronavirusonlinetherapy.com/
  • Five apps to calm the mind, body, and spirit
    http://blkandfit.com/2020/03/5-apps-to-calm-the-mind-body-spirit/
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Ariela Paulsen

Ari struggled with a wide array of health problems for decades before being diagnosed with EDS/POTS/MCAS/etc at age 25. She began writing as a way to heal while spreading information and helping others through their own journeys. She loves being part of the Mighty Well team, sharing the stories and strengths of spoonies everywhere!

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Hi, We're Mighty Well.

The mission of Mighty Well is to help patients and their caregivers turn sickness into strength. We are leading the global charge that changes the perception of patients from victims to fighters. We do this by improving the experience of being a patient. We create the products we wish we’d had: functional and stylish apparel and accessories that you can wear with confidence - and content that can help you get through the good times and the bad. It’s wellness you can wear.

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Mighty Well - Founder - Emily Levy - Our Story

 

It all started with a cut off sock, a cute hockey player, and an 8 AM finance class. Oh, and a PICC Line. That moment inspired us to launch our first product, the PICCPerfect PICC Line Cover.

 

We know it stinks to feel defined by a diagnosis or feel like just a name on a doctor’s chart. Sounds like you? Read how our founder turned sickness into strength.

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