Isolation Puts Those with Depression at Risk

Dr. Khare Urges Patients to Stick with Treatment; Offers Tips for Caregivers and Friends 

COVID-19 has the entire country on edge, as the lack of normalcy is an adjustment for everyone. A jolt to your routine can cause an enormous amount of stress and worry. Many people are experiencing severe depression and anxiety due to isolation and worries about the future. That’s why I’m sending this plea to everyone — Take care of your mental health during this uncertain time. Get outdoors each day, find ways to relieve stress and most importantly, if you grapple with depression, continue with treatment. 

Patients, talk with your doctor and devise a plan

• Find out if your therapist will see you via telemedicine. This way you can continue with these important sessions, without even leaving home.
• Keep prescriptions on hand and order refills before you are too low.
• If you receive ketamine infusions, rest assured that Innovative Ketamine is continuing to see patients during this time. We have taken a number of precautions to keep you safe and healthy. We have also dropped the out of pocket fees for insured patients seeking mood disorder treatment. This means that you will only be responsible for your co-pay, co-insurance or deductible, as no other fees will be billed. 
• Stay in contact with family and friends. Isolation is hard. Use technology to your advantage and have daily interactions with the people you love to keep your spirits up.

Check on loved ones 

• Recognize that this is a particularly difficult time for those suffering from depression.
• If you are unable to physically see one another, connect via technology to stay in touch.
• Look for signs of concern. How is their demeanor? Are they answering the phone and text messages? Do what you can to keep their spirits high.
• Spread kindness and show people that you care. A gift on their doorstep, or a card in the mail can go a long way. 
• Engage in an activities together, even if it’s online. Technology is a great tool and there are countless people offering free concerts, yoga classes and more that you can enjoy together from afar.

Contact us with questions or to make an appointment. Take care of each other, and know that we are here to take care of you, too.