Orders to self isolate and practice social distancing can make it harder for people to reach out and get the support they need in this changing environment. And being left alone can have an effect when it comes to suicidal ideations.
"There are two major protective factors that reduce the likelihood of suicide and suicidal ideations," said Nora Ann Brucklacher, Marriage and Family Therapist with Sierra Sunrise Wellness Group. Number one is a sense of support and belonging. Number two is that sense of agency and I think for a number of people, we're facing tremendous uncertainty. We're having to remain in our homes by ourselves, there are major financial concerns. People don't know if they are going to get their jobs back, if they are going to have that job security going forward, and I think all of that is really contributing to a sense of depression and anxiety; emotions are running very high right now."
These days a lot of therapy is moving online or over the phone and Brucklacher urges anyone that needs to reach out to continue to do so.
"There are two other major vulnerable populations and that would include that that already have substance abuse issues and those that are at risk for domestic violence. I think there is a much higher likelihood we could see an uptick in domestic violence incidents."
Another concern is the effect all this fear and uncertainty will have on children in the home.
"If you have children in the home the kiddos are going to remember what were the role models for them," Brucklacher said. "In many situations they might not remember a whole lot about the virus itself but they will remember how those around them reacted to it. If you find you're having difficulties managing through this situation please know there is still help available. I am one of many clinicians in this area that would be glad to support you."
She's moved her practice to a Telehealth model for the time being.
"I am not as concerned about my sliding fee scale and would be happy to work for different families in terms of what is comfortable for their budget at this time," Brucklacher said. "My number one concern is community care and ensuring we get through this crisis together and we don't see an uptick in suicide rates. I think there is a high probability that people who are alone and suffering may feel there is nothing they can do about it but let me tell you, you absolutely can; you just have to reach out digitally."
Resources: http://www.sierrasunrisewellnessgroup.org/
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
Crisis Call Center: 775-784-8090 or Text "Answer" to 839863
