Taking Care of You: Self-Care Resources

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an unprecedented pandemic. In our lifetime, we have never been in the situation of dealing with so many variables impacting us, our families, employers, family caregivers, and residents of long-term care facilities. In addition to the general stress of this pandemic, the way Ombudsman programs operate has been significantly impacted due to the temporary in-person visitation restrictions. During this difficult time, it is critical that you take care of yourself so you can be your best for others in both your work and personal life. Below are resources and suggestions for self-care.

Resources

NORC

Taking Care of You

By the very nature of Ombudsman program work, you may be subjected to compassion fatigue, burnout, or individual trauma due to COVID-19. This resource provides brief information about these reactions, tips for self-care, and program management considerations.

Part I Webinar - COVID-19 and Ombudsman Programs: Understanding How Trauma Impacts You, Residents, and Your Advocacy

This four-part webinar series discusses the impact of trauma due to the COVID-19 pandemic on long-term care residents and Ombudsman programs. Part I in the series was held on April 29, view the recording and slides here. The remaining webinars in the series will highlight important themes related to trauma-informed care, person-centered care, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. The series will include case studies, self-reflection activities and exercises, and materials for attendees. If you registered for the April 29th webinar, you are already registered for the entire series. Register for the webinar series.

Coronavirus Prevention in Long-Term Care Facilities: Information for Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs

Trauma-Informed Care: Nursing Home Requirements and Ombudsman Program Advocacy

Trauma-Informed Issue page

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Toll-Free (English): 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Toll-Free (Español): 1-888-628-9454 TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889)
Website: English and Español

U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) samhsa.gov

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990 provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.
SMS: Text TalkWithUs to 66746 SMS (Español): “Hablanos” al 66746 TTY: 1-800-846-8517
Website: English and Español

SAMHSA’s National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. Learn more.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHA): Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health
This resource provides tips and resources available on behavioral health.

Additional Resources

The American Red Cross is Offering Mental Health First Aid for COVID-19 Online Course

National Institutes of Health Emotional Wellness Toolkit

What to Do in These Stressful Times: A Blog by Susan Wehry, MD

For additional information and resources on self-care and COVID-19 visit the NORC website.

Read archived issues of NORC Notes. If you have a question, are not able to find a resource, or want to share training materials or program practices, please email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.