At the Centre for Effective Living, we have been thinking about how the coronavirus situation is impacting our clients. In this blog, we wanted to highlight some tips for psychological well-being during COVID-19. In particular, we are mindful of individuals who may be likely to worry about health-related information. If you are finding that you feel increasingly worried about the situation, be aware of the amount of exposure you are getting to news, images, and talk about the coronavirus. People tend to talk about what they are worried about, and stress can spread from person to person. So, give yourself permission to switch off these channels, and instead use this time to do an activity that can help you feel calm. You can stay informed by only reading official sources of information, such as government health websites, once or twice a day.
We are also thinking about how children might be affected by this situation. No doubt, many parents are wondering how to discuss the coronavirus with their kids in a way that will not make them more worried. We would encourage parents to not be afraid to discuss the coronavirus, as keeping kids in the dark may make them worry more. Instead, answer your child’s questions by sticking to small amounts of information to avoid overloading them with details. Focus conversations on what you are doing to stay safe, as knowing what to do to stay healthy can help your kids feel empowered at this time.
In a situation like this, staying connected with people who support you is very important in maintaining our psychological well-being. Even if you cannot see people face to face, there are electronic ways to stay connected, such as Skype or FaceTime.
If you are unwell and unable to come into our clinic, video-calling consultations on Zoom may be an option for you. You can learn more about how to do this here https://www.effectiveliving.com.au/telehealth-services/
We hope that all of our community at The Centre for Effective Living keeps physically and mentally well at this time.
Lauren Chee (M Clin Psych, BSc (Hons – First Class)) is a psychologist who understands the importance of forming a genuine and caring therapeutic relationship with each individual she sees. Lauren is registered with Medicare and is also an approved practitioner in the NSW Workers Compensation System.
Lauren has experience working with both children and adults within schools, private clinics, and inpatient and outpatient hospital settings. Her warm and supportive approach helps her clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns in order to develop practical strategies to reach their goals. Some of the issues she has helped her clients with include depression, anxiety, perfectionism, adjustment to significant life change, self-esteem, grief, learning difficulties, and school and work-related stress.
In her work, Lauren recognises the individuality of each person and their story, and provides uniquely tailored treatments to support her clients. By being committed to the latest psychological research, she is able to equip her clients with evidence-based skills and knowledge that can lead to positive and lasting change. Lauren is a dedicated and approachable psychologist with a passion for helping her clients live a life in line with their personal values.
Lauren has a special interest in:
Anxiety Disorders e.g. Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Health Anxiety
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Social Skills and Assertiveness
Parenting and Attachment
Child Mental Health and Wellbeing
Learning Difficulties e.g. ADHD, specific learning disorders
School-Related Stress
Christian Counselling
Outside of work, Lauren enjoys spending time in nature, discovering new music, and sharing delicious meals with her friends and family.