Struck by a few things #mentalhealth related in the midst of #COVID19 that should be reason for reflection and introspection in our society: (a thread)
There is a proliferation of online information, self-help resources, apps, and virtual supports. This is awesome. But it is not enough. We had online information and self-help available before COVID-19. We still had a mental health crisis. /1
A big reason for this is that people who are struggling, isolated, alone, and having difficulty coping needed to CONNECT to fellow human beings. To trained mental health professionals who functioned according with the best available evidence and standard of practice. /2
In 2 weeks what was once considered 'innovative' is now the standard of care. Online psychotherapy groups, online peer support, curated resources... These are part of our new normal. The availability of these resources is exciting and shows promise, but comes with risk .. /3
Many, many, many, people struggling can't do virtual care because they don't have private spaces. They don't have access to the kinds of resources we do. Many have complex needs that an online pdf can't help solve. Many have tried to manage on their own but need help. /4
Countless people have been on endless waiting lists for treatment and they're still waiting. For some of them their wait is now prolonged because of our attention to COVID-19. I hope we don't forget about them. They matter too. /5
Amidst the chaos and rush of a crisis response, we tend to focus narrowly on the current moment and neglect to reflect on what the present means in the context of the past and the future. /END
