Leaving home for college is a rite of passage for millions of students each fall, often filled with a combination of excitement, sadness, and fear of the unknown, especially with the uncertainty of the pandemic. This time can be difficult to navigate in an unfamiliar environment with new routines and stressors.

For patients struggling with mental health challenges, a behavior specialist is an integral part of the therapeutic team at Rogers Behavioral Health.

Since it began in 1949, Mental Health Month has provided the opportunity to recognize the importance of mental health and spread awareness. Now, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing guidelines, it’s more important than ever.

Too much screen time can have a negative effect on mental health. However, during the COVID-19 crisis when social distancing and isolation are necessary, we are being asked to intentionally avoid having the same level of in-person interaction that is normally considered positive.

Kids are doing school at home. Parents are working from home. People can’t visit their loved ones in the hospital or nursing home. COVID-19 has brought significant change to our daily lives, but we can find reasons to be thankful.

Everyone is feeling the stress of dealing with all the changes that are happening during the pandemic. Now more than ever it’s important to set healthy and appropriate boundaries.