If there’s one takeaway from the COVID-19 epidemic is that telehealth services have become imperative. With restrictions on our ability to see each other and engage in group activities, during personal or medical isolations we must not neglect our mental health. Through video and phone sessions, thousands of people have gained access to mental health services. And by offering telehealth we want to be able to reach you where you're most comfortable. So, we thought it might be helpful to provide some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your telehealth sessions.
Prepare for your session!
Make sure your device is charged - The last thing you want is to lose any time from your session scrambling for a charger. It can interrupt the flow of the session and serve as a big distraction.
Distractions away- Screaming, yelling, TV and any background noise will make it more difficult to hear your psychologist and collect your thoughts. So, think. How can I keep noise at the minimum? Turn off the TV? Maybe find a quiet room in the house. This may be difficult with kids so maybe you need them set up with an activity.
Be sure of your access link - If you're waiting 2 minutes before your session to find your access link you’re not likely going to make it on time meaning you losing money and time. This is where our team can help double-check your link to make sure you are confident going into your session.
During your session
Notes, notes, and more notes – Telehealth needs a higher level of communication so feel free to write down notes in the session about what is said, what you want to remember and any questions you want to circle back to. This makes it an efficient and effective use of the session.
Make your own comfort space- One of the great things about telehealth is the convenience of comfort. Finding your safe space in your home and having your session there can help you relax more and be an effective way to feel good during any session.
After your session
Reflection – Going through an in-office session and relaxing only to then immediately leave can break a very important part of the mental health journey- Reflection. By opting for telehealth, you can sit back in the comfort of your own home and take time to process the session. You could take a walk, drink some hot tea or just lay back and relax the old fashion way.
NOTE:
None of this is compulsory what is most important in a telehealth session is to do what is right for YOU! Your clinician will be there with you to guide you through the process and provide support in any way they can.
If you have any questions about telehealth or want to book an appointment,
contact 0491 072 062