Climate of Change: Dealing with Stressors of COVID-19

Presentation Details: The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic poses a threat beyond the physical effects that come with a pandemic and into various psychological problems and consequences in terms of mental health. Starting in the year 2020 and continuing into 2021, the pandemic has had an irreversible effect on all of our lives. The purpose of this presentation is to inform the trainees of the various impacts the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the individuals' and their loved ones mental wellness and to normalize the reactions. Some of the common reactions that will be discussed include anxiety, frustration, depression, stress, and uncertainty. The presentation will also discuss how the reactions can be attributed to things such as the mass quarantine order, stress-provoking information shared by social media, and general fear and anxiety over contracting the disease or a loved one contracting the disease. It will also provide the attendees the proper evidence-based methods and tools to cope with the personal reactions, as well as to assist their loved ones through their reactions. Trainees will also learn best preventative strategies for promotion of long term psychological well being.