You may be aware that the suicide rate is currently higher than the homicide rate in this country. I am aware that I have written about the increase in depression. Now this.
At Medicare, we understand people may have concerns about going to a doctor’s office during the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Like so many Americans, Medicare beneficiaries are rightly observing social distancing guidelines to protect themselves and others from possible infection. We also recognize that beneficiaries still need checkups, prescription refills or other care from their doctors.
When clients come into my office for the first time, they fill out a brief form. One of the questions is “What is your goal for therapy?” In all of my years of practice, no one has said they want to be happy.
I can certainly appreciate and understand one wanting a lessening of pain, depression, anxiety or relationship struggles. I am not inferring that citing these as a goal is inappropriate. But I am aware that many do not think of happiness as a goal.
Sisters Amy and Mya Nguyen haven’t squandered their time during the shelter-in-place order. Mya, a ninth-grader at Alameda High School and Amy, a seventh-grader at Will C. Wood Middle School have launched a successful medical supply drive that has been underway since April 23.
The teenagers are seeking donations of new N95 or surgical masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectants and wipes for cleaning, disposable gloves, protective goggles or isolation gowns which they will then supply to healthcare workers and first responders.
The coronavirus has brought stress to everyone. We are wisely sheltered. People are working from home. Schools are closed. Businesses are closed or available for pick-up or delivery only. Many have lost their jobs. Those who returned from abroad in many cases are quarantined.
