LBCC mental health clinicians led a zoom discussion on Tuesday, March 16 to talk about how women’s mental health has been impacted during the pandemic.
The discussion was held to create a safe space for women where they could come together and talk about their mental health and how the pandemic has greatly impacted all of them.
“The pandemic has been a very difficult time,” said Amy La, Long Beach City College (LBCC) mental health clinician. “Managing one’s mental health during this time has been challenging for many of us.”
During the discussion, it was made known that since the pandemic has started, many women have been forced into many different roles in their households.
Women have had to learn to integrate the different roles, where they usually only spend a couple hours during the day, into their household environment. Doing this has taken a toll on their mental health.
Because women have to be mothers, employees, and many different roles, they have been unable to focus on their mental health.
Daisy Cook, adjunct counselor for student support services and mental health clinician at LBCC, said, “…it is vital for women to practice self-compassion and recognize that they can make small realistic changes to prioritize their mental health.”
During the discussion, La and Cook made it clear that it is very important for women to prioritize their mental health and to make sure women understand that taking days off are essential and beneficial.
“…sometimes stepping away to the bathroom, going outside for some sun, going for a walk, taking a mindful shower, or doing other small changes can also help mitigate the compiled stress experienced during COVID-19,” said Cook.
The ending of the discussion was full of advice from participants on different ways that they take care of themselves mentally.
“During this time, being intentional on caring for yourself is crucial,” said La
For more information on the mental health services offered at LBCC visit https://www.lbcc.edu/mental-health-services.