Online therapy is in high demand as coronavirus anxiety drives people to get help without leaving their homes [ARTICLE]

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Including virtual therapy practices, seem to be benefit ting as people seek coping mechanisms in the sterility of their own homes. Insider talked to online therapists and virtual therapy organizations about how fears about the virus are affecting demand. As a therapist, Neidich knew she needed to tackle the rising anxiety head-on. "I think this is likely due to the fact that I'm an online therapist exclusively, and people are super anxious but perhaps not wanting to venture out to a practice to meet with someone at this time.” Business Insider talked to other virtual therapy services and found that Neidich's theory seems to hold true. Online therapists are dealing with higher demand and a common worry Alon Matas, the founder and president of the online counseling service BetterHelp told Insider "The number of new members with concerns of stress and anxiety in February more than doubled compared to February of last year.” BetterHelp therapists have reported how coronavirus has increased the level of anxiety with their current clients, Matas said. "We have a strong feeling that people are generally more anxious because of the coronavirus," he said. Talkspace , perhaps the most well-known online and mobile therapy program in part thanks to endorsements from celebrities like Michael Phelps, has seen over 10% growth in requests "And that number is accelerating," a spokesperson told Insider. "This is likely due to coronavirus anxiety as well as traditional therapy patients looking for an alternative that allows them to access therapy remotely," she said. Cheri McDonald , a psychologist in Westlake Village, California, who specializes in treating trauma , said that while she hasn't seen an increase in requests for virtual appointments, 100% of those who've had either virtual or in-person visits scheduled have brought up the coronavirus. How to deal with coronavirus-related anxiety Outside of seeking therapists' help, virtually or otherwise, coronavirus-related stress can be managed in part by setting parameters around how much you read about or watch news about the issue, Julie Pike , a clinical psychologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, who specializes in anxiety disorders, previously told Insider. Too much exposure, especially from sketchy sources, can make consumers overestimate threat and underestimate their coping abilities, which is a recipe for anxiety. McDonald tells clients who are worried about potential outbreaks in their communities or homes that they already have the tools to protect themselves: They can wash their hands frequently and thoroughly, avoid people who are sick, and follow other public-health recommendations. "If you're feeling anxiety, lean on each other," she said, adding that feeling connected and supported is good for the immune system. Source | Create Website | Criar site | Crear sitio web | Créer un site Web