You At Your Best

sPonsor content BY Karen rice You at Your Best Life has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing may make us vulnerable to fear and anxiety; depression and boredom; anger, frustration or irritability; and stigmatization, according to the American Psychological Association (APA.) "The unique challenges of isolation, job changes, daily routine changes, and loss are all going to be contributing factors for people in our community," notes Fayetteville's Springwoods Behavioral Health CEO Jordon Babcock. "Those members of our community who were already in care or predisposed to challenges with their mental health will be facing additional stressors and contributing factors. In essence, this pandemic will increase our community's need for mental health services." Many mental health professionals have responded to these difficult times by providing online counseling via phone, Facetime, Zoom or other remote platforms. Springwoods is one of the area providers that has responded to the crisis by adapting their programs. "Access to telehealth services will help to bring care directly to where the patients are, whether or not it is in their homes or any remote location," Jordon states. Springwoods' new Telehealth service enables patients to participate remotely in their Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)], from the comfort of their home using a phone, tablet or computer. Jordon points out that ignoring the early warning signs of mental health such as depression, lack of enjoyment, or thoughts of hurting yourself or others, can contribute to a more complicated situation in the future. In these difficult times it is critical to seek out services and pay attention to ourselves and our own mental health. In addition to teletherapy, here are some other ways to cope: • Make time for fun activities. Psychologists recommend balancing time spent on news and social media with other activities. Make a conscious effort each day to read a book, listen to music or even learn a new language. • Get news from reliable sources. Inaccurate information about COVID-19 can spread fear, making it even more difficult for people to cope. The APA recommends people get their information from news outlets that rely on trusted organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. • Maintain virtual connections with others. Face-to-face interactions may not be possible, but mental health professionals notes the value of phone calls, text messages, video chat, and social media. • Maintain a healthy lifestyle. It's important to get enough sleep, eat well and exercise. Avoid using alcohol or drugs, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. More information is available at www.apa.org and on www.cdc.gov. For more information on Springwoods' programs, visit www.springwoodsbehavoral.com. Mental health during the global pandemic Losing a loved one is difficult. Losing a spouse is not only difficult, but life changing. How do you go from being a couple to an individual? How do you manage your new budget? How do you know where to go for grief support? Certified Senior Housing Professional, Alison Van Hecke, wants to help make this major life transition easier and less stressful for seniors. That's why Alison is presenting "Let's Talk: Going from 'Me' to 'We'" on June 11, 2020 as part of her monthly Senior Smart Talk Seminar Series. Local experts will discuss this sensitive, but important topic. Alison is a leading authority on issues related to downsizing, late-life moves and (55+) senior living solutions, having helped many families and individuals in Northwest Arkansas deal with this challenging time. "Losing a spouse is one of the most stressful life events imaginable," Alison says. "I wanted to bring together resources and information to assist seniors when they deal—physically and emotionally—with this huge life change." The issues involved in losing a spouse late in life are complex. Dealing with grief is just the beginning. It may involve consideration of the consequences of living alone, budgeting, keeping the family home and more. "Our goal is to help seniors cope with a very difficult time, help soothe fears and anxiety, and connect them with useful resources here in Northwest Arkansas," Alison adds. The seminar runs from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Embassy Suites in Rogers. There is no cost to attend for those age 55 or older. Registration for professionals is $25. Seating is limited, and pre-registration is required at www.senior-smart-talk.com or by calling 479-717-7710. Follow us on Facebook for regular updates and seminar information. Upcoming Senior Smart Talk seminars include "Let's Talk: Senior Living Options in NWA" on July 9, 2020 and "Let's Talk: Staying Independent as you Age" on August 13, 2020. Sponsors of the series include: Lighthouse Group NWA - Keller Williams Market Pro Realty; Circle of Life; Grandbrook Memory Care; Home Instead Senior Care; RMP Law; Todd Whatley, PA; Senior Services NWA; Springwoods; Handle With Care Move Management, The Meadows in Bentonville, Village on the Park, and Good Shepherd Home Care. Let's talk: Going from "WE" to "ME" Senior Smart Talk presents: sunDaY, MaY 31, 2020 | June - active MinDs nWaDG.coM/YouatYourBest | You at Your Best | 5 Ad Number: 053120e9471 L O C A T I O N & T I M E : Call 479-717-7710 to register for webinar. Or register online at www.senior-smart-talk.com Thursday, June 11, 2020 10-11:30 AM JOIN US FOR A SERIES OF CANDID CONVERSATIONS WITH LOCAL EXPERTS FOCUSED ON THE UNIQUE AND COMPLEX ISSUES FACING NWA'S SENIORS. FREE Webinar! June 11 th WeBinar: Going from "WE" to "ME" Losing a loved one is always difficult. Losing a spouse is not only difficult, but life changing. How do you go from being a couple to an individual? How do you manage your new budget? How do you know where to go for grief support? Our local experts will discuss this sensitive, but important topic. FutuRE FREE EvEnts: July 9th: Senior Living Options in NWA August 13th: Staying Put - Remaining Independent as You Age September 10th: Hospice, Palliative Care, and the Logistics of Dying

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