Helping from home

What seemed like a doomsday scenario of a Hollywood film, became reality in March as buildings started closing down rapidly due to a government order. Many professions and businesses required sudden adjustments, as social distancing and fear of the virus became reality. One of the professions that faced new challenges, was the mental health department at SiO. According to Anne Karin Mullally, the leader of the mental health department at SiO Health, they had to adapt quickly.

— I have experienced the time since the Corona virus outbreak as very busy, but in a different way than earlier. As soon as we were informed of the decision to close down patient contact in SiO's Mental Health Services, we proceeded to have all consultations by video. Luckily, we had the necessary infrastructure and went from less than 10 video-consultations in a day to more than 300 the next day. I now have almost only digital meetings, usually through TEAMS, which has worked very well. We have also been busy developing more comprehensive digital services.

Digital diagnosis

SiO Helse now offers online consultations with patients via the SiO Helse app. By logging in on the app via BankID, the appointment the patient made with the health care worker shows up on the screen, after which a video call starts when both confirm they are ready. Most of the mental health workers do their video-consultations from home. Despite the drastic changes, patients of SiO’s Mental Health Services did not seem to mind the online conversation as very few patients decided to wait for offices to re-open. Recently, SiO Mental Health has opened their doors to a limited degree for face-to-face consultations. Strict guidelines have been put in place to reduce the chance of infection chances. According to Mullally, mental health workers have experienced the transition from face-to-face to online consultations as surprisingly easy.

— Mental health workers experience being able to secure a good alliance with most of the patients and follow treatment protocols as usual.

In a strange and isolated time like now, it might be the case that not only the patients of mental workers need help, but the mental workers themselves too. In an effort to cope with this possibility, Mullally has regular online team meetings and case consultations between mental health workers.

Returning to normal

After the Corona virus outbreak hit Norway, SiO Helse noticed a drop in new patients. Now however, the number of patients by self-referral has increased again. Though, it is unknown at this point when exactly the mental health workers will be able to work in the office again, Mullally believes that the alternative methods of treatment have shown long-term potential and is here to stay in one capacity or another.

Despite the return of patients at the mental health department, SiO Helse also set up an English webinar in order for students to better cope with stress and to improve their study habits.

— We immediately started to plan for webinars and streamed courses to replace the many courses we hold throughout the years. This is now available to the students wherever they are.

As consequences of the virus outbreak, such as keeping distance and washing your hands are known to everyone, Mullally stresses the importance of other habits to help cope with the virus outbreak. One of her tips is to make a daily plan for when to study, work-out, eat, and other regular activities. Another idea is to reduce your daily news intake as this might increase anxiety. Practicing mindfulness and avoiding isolation are also helpful tips.

— Seek help if you feel overwhelmed. SiO Health services are available with counselors, psychologists and general practitioners ready to talk to you, says Mullally.