Dr. Patricia R. Cruz, LCSWÂ
Heroes
For nearly four months now, everyone in our community, city and state has been told to stay home or close to home due to COVID-19. First, the non-negotiable stay at home orders; then, work from home and no school for the children. Not being able to leave home because of stay-at-home orders impacted a lot of people. Of course, we complied. If, in fact, you did have to leave home, you probably had chosen to do so. For the essential worker, there was no choice. They have been leaving home, heading to the front lines of the pandemic battle from day one. They still continue today; never having missed a day. While most watched from home, viewing the endless reporting on the difficulties of acquiring personal protective equipment, and ill-arranged plans to guarantee the safety of first responders. There was little to no guidance on how to engage again with family after long shifts; or what extra measures of distancing were required. The personal pressure to withstand these challenges has mounted over the last few months; surely, the stress is beyond measure even as the world opens back up. Mental health experts are now warning the mental health needs of essential workers ought to be a priority.Â
The essential worker never had the choice to stay home. Think of the health care workers who walked directly toward the greatest danger of the invisible enemy day in and day out. I have heard from a front-line worker recently, “you just never know what you are getting with the COVID-19 patient…whether they will live or die, that is stressful.” True, they are trained, taken oaths, remember their own respective codes of ethics, and the most self-sacrificing people we will ever know. They are still human and not exempt from fear, stress, depression, and anxiety. Many of our incredible responders have perfected their persona of strength and resilience. It may be an amazing guise for the deepest struggle.Â
Sacrifice
They have a heart for anyone suffering, yet the cumulative effects and the toll may be their own emotional health. Their minds are racing, with worry, grief, and uncertainty. A few minutes to be alone also bring so much sadness; at times, it might be better to avoid the quiet. The bodies and minds are tired. I do know; we must elevate the priority of the mental health of our essential workers. Essential workers are worried about their own lives too. They know first-hand how contagious and deadly COVID-19 is. Daily exposure to the virus makes every second crucial; watching their every step, the stress of not making a contact mistake. Self-care will be vital as we move forward.
How we can help
Essential workers are encouraged to stay connected with loved ones while practicing social distancing. In addition, talking to someone about the struggles they may be facing at work. Please understand you are not alone; adding emotional support is not a selfish act. The burden placed upon our front-line workers is real…and continues to be devastating. We must make sure the resources needed for their emotional wellness are available. As they have been there for all of us in our time of need. Mental health is “Essential.”Â
We have decided to offer two free sessions to essential workers. Talking about the stress of this global pandemic can change everything. Don’t go at it alone.
Contact us today,
1-888-402-0840
