ACA MEMBER BLOGS

Social connection plays a vital role in people’s mental health. Research indicates that people who feel lonely are 26 percent more likely to die early than people who are more socially connected.

“It is a beautiful day in the neighborhood…” perhaps you recall the Mister Rogers Neighborhood theme song with nostalgia and visions of him changing from his blazer to his soft hand knit cardigan sweaters that his mother made for him. One thing I appreciated about his theme song, was that he wanted us to know that it could be a beautiful day in the neighborhood regardless of what the weather was like outside.

As many have said during this time: if we are not part of the solution, then we are part of the problem. It is imperative to stand up together.

As a school counselor, or mental health counselor, we all know that there are a lot of kids and adults that need help coping with this current pandemic and racial distress. You cannot help them, or even yourself, if you are not mentally, emotionally, or physically healthy.

The latest events in this country, including our exposure to witnessing the horrendous, unjustified murder of George Floyd, will no doubt have ripple effects on our psychological health. The adversity people of color, in particular Blacks in USA, have endured for centuries was captured in a 10-minute video filmed by a 17-year-old woman.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been asked to keep their distance and stay isolated inside their homes to keep themselves and others safe. But this behavior may have implications on people’s mental health.

We must continue to advocate and speak out against racism. The committee recognizes the daily racial trauma experienced by the Black and African American communities and our duty to express our alliance with its members. As a committee and as individuals, we are taking supportive action in the movement for racial justice. We are listening.

As a society, we tend to only realize the importance of mental health during a crisis or when it’s a little too late. Instead, our goal should be preventative care. Going forward therapists can help prepare people for the longer psychological struggles that lie ahead.

After the tragic death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna in January 2020, #GirlDad started to trend in honor of their close relationship. It is heart-warming to see a father being emotionally supportive of his daughter, and daughters certainly need their father’s love, attention, and emotional support.

Take your time in trying out all different types of meditation and mindfulness activities to figure out what suites you best. After more and more time is spent meditating you will become more and more comfortable with the idea of being still and focusing your attention to your breath.