Healthcare Network, known in Collier County for providing integrated primary care that addresses both mind and body, will host a series of free virtual conversations tailored for healthcare workers throughout Florida. The discussions, beginning Tuesday, May 19, will focus on reactions, coping strategies and resilience building related to COVID-19.
“While no one is completely immune to the many biopsychosocial impacts of COVID-19, the need to respond to our healthcare workforce is especially critical, because the recovery efforts of communities everywhere will depend upon it,” said Dr. Emily Ptaszek, President and CEO of Healthcare Network. “We understand the challenges and rewards of the caregiving profession. We can also relate to the impact COVID-19 has on mental and physical well-being, particularly in the medical community, as our psychologists also work on the frontline in primary care. We invite healthcare workers and providers to join us for this virtual conversation series to discuss the psychological impacts of COVID-19, as together we learn how to build resilience and prepare for the future, while continuing to serve our patients and communities.”
Sessions include:
- “So, I woke up to a global pandemic: Initial reactions to the crisis.”
Participants will be exposed to ideas and insights related to the range of expected cognitive, emotional and psychological responses to the pandemic, as well as how to develop a mindset that promotes psychological well-being. The discussion is “participant-as-experts” driven. Evidence-based information will be shared.- Healthcare staff: Tuesday, May 19, 6-7 p.m.
- Providers: Thursday, May 21, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- “Masked: The humans behind the PPE”
Participants will discuss the normative and varied emotional reactions experienced in the context of this pandemic and their selfless service. With related risk factors from the literature, along with informational and support resources, participants will learn how to develop a healthy range of coping strategies that match the situation.- Healthcare staff: Tuesday, May 26, 6-7 p.m.
- Providers: Thursday, May 28, 5:30- 6:30 p.m.
- “Universal psychological precautions (& coping strategies, continued)”
Participants will be invited to share realistic things they as healthcare workers can do to mitigate the negative impacts of COVID-19. Participants should leave with specific information, insights and/or reflection points related to healthy coping and mindset (e.g., nutrition, sleep, physical activity, relaxation, self-care), navigating multiple roles (e.g., professional/employee, partner, parent, caregiver, etc.), active coping (e.g., problem-solving/planning, etc.) and increasing social support.- Healthcare staff: Tuesday, June 2, 6-7 p.m.
- Providers: Thursday, June 4, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- “So, I survived a global pandemic. Now what?”
Focus on finding meaning during COVID-19, as well as any other topics requested by attendees. Tips for self-care and ongoing self-assessment, along with when to consider seeking help, will be discussed.- Healthcare staff: Tuesday, June 9, 6-7 p.m.
- Providers: Thursday, June 11, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Registration at HealthcareSWFL.org is requested for each session and can be anonymous. Understanding healthcare staff and provider experiences are often uniquely different, sessions are being offered separately to each group. All conversations will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, but participants do not need to have this platform installed to access the discussions. Participants with questions can contact Mariana Minguela at 239-658-3000 or email MMinguela@HealthcareSWFL.org.
About Healthcare Network
Healthcare Network is committed to ensuring quality healthcare is accessible to everyone in our community, regardless of income or insurance status. Founded in Collier County in 1977, Healthcare Network provides care to more than 50,000 patients through primary services including family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, senior care, and pharmacy as well as dental care and integrated behavioral health for both adults and children. The organization’s newest location, the Nichols Community Health Center, is a 51,000-square-foot primary care medical center in Golden Gate. For more information, visit http://www.HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.
