For most patients, the COVID-19 crisis has created a “new normal.” They may be stuck at home, unable to work, or feeling isolated from dear friends and family.
This all can leave people feeling helpless.
So what can we do to help patients regain a sense of agency during the pandemic? Bessel van der Kolk, MD has several ideas.
Take a moment now to hear them in the video below.
Just one note before you watch: there’s a section that Bessel specifically asked us to leave in, even though we’d normally remove it. However, this time he wanted you to be able to hear it for yourself.
According to Bessel, there are insights we can draw from trauma therapy that could help patients when they’re feeling helpless or reeling from the unpredictability of life during a pandemic.
Now think of the patients you’ll be seeing this week. Is there a strategy from the video that one of them might find particularly helpful?
We understand that not everyone will agree with Bessel’s politics, and we appreciate that we have a community of practitioners from both sides of the aisle. But for the comments we’d like to focus on what we all have in common: our work with patients.
Please let us know a strategy that one of your patients may find helpful in the comments below.
I applaud your saying the C word in regards to the leadership in the federal government. As a mental health practitioner with 48 years of experience, I believe it is past time for us as a profession to stop standing by and thinking that matters will improve without an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment intervention. The question is how to make it happen. We will be a sicker society staying in denial.
Thank you for your ideas on how to bring sanity back for ourselves, our clients, and loved ones.
true
J.M. Emetchi – trauma worker.
In my mind it is false to separate Trumpian politics from this COVID-19. Brown and black people, poor people financially, Immigrants, Elderly folk and others disproportionately are impacted and the impact is far worsened by the appallingly slow, ridiculously conditional and stingy response from Government. Trump’s decisions hold some responsibility for Americans sickening and dying. Politics and health care are entwined and we helpers in whatever form we give ourselves need to realize this and quit denying that there is a vicious Class war happening here. To not comprehend this is to be naive and apply a “one size fits all” approach to the huge diversity of situations that happen every day and every night.
Bravo Bessel I stand alongside you.
Aside from his political
Comments I enjoyed this video and will
Use some of his tips with my clients. His presentation was clear and simple
I respect his political views but feel our problems are not limited to the Presidency. I see the craziness throughout our govt cuz as divided as our country is and many against our leader it would be an opportune time for the enemy to strike. My fear is bio warfare !!! I would like this virus to unify us. We are all Americans and if you dont agree with the President then use your right to Vote and your voice will be heard. That is the democratic way and what has made our country great thou the years. We need to work together by sharing ideas and respect each to find resolution to stomp out Covid. Not a good time to find fault with each other.
First of all, I admire your work. It is unfortunate to bring politics into this professional space. We are here to help empower people and no one is empowered by blaming others. In fact, blame leads to the ultimate helplessness.
No one is empowered by pretending that madness is sanity. Let’s just call it what it is. Many people are being actively traumatized by the endless gaslighting, abuse and insanity coming directly from the president.
thank you for not deleting bessel’s comment on trump. there is an unmistakeable trauma resulting from this president, and not to acknowledge the effect he is having en masse, is to be in some denial. which would not be helpful to anyone. i posit there is more objectivity to admitting the negative effect on citizens, than will probably be mentioned by anyone who supports him. the trump presidency simultaneous with the virus menace, a double crisis……so glad to see the goodness of people though, it truly is the worst and best of times.
Excellent comments from Bessel!
In a nutshell: movement and rhythm
Movement in relationships (engagement). Body movement, movement through our days (structured tasks)
‘Thanks!
Beatriz
Where do you live? In the United States where we have the amazing President Trump, I feel sorry for you that you are so discouraged about the leadership in your country. Thank you for encouraging me with I at least have a positive President who is helping us see the light at the end of the tunnel. Sharing with my group it is such a great video as always!
You live in a fantasy land Katie. Rump will go down as worst, most corrupt, misinformed, most untruthful and divisive “leader” in our history.
a positive president who calls the virus the asian virus? A president who leads on dividing and spitting racism and sexism. Good luck with this comment!
I think that Bessel has idenfied excellent strategies for our new normal. I already do some of the things he mentioned. That’s partly because I love structure and always try to structure my life and activities. It brings me confidence and takes away doubt.