COVID-19

This has been an extremely challenging quarantine season for me, not so much because of the restrictions posed by the mandate to stay home, as I am still going to the hospital daily for patient rounds; my biggest struggle has been watching the toxic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on many in my immediate social circle.

An announcement from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) regarding medical student clinical rotations during the COVID-19 pandemic effectively halted medical student education on March 17th.

A poem titled Loves by American poet Stephen Dunn inspired me to write a poem about everything I love about my work as a doctor.

Patients with bipolar disorder often find it difficult to maintain schedules and routines, all the more challenging with the COVID-19 pandemic. More in this video.

For all educators, this is a time of great uncertainty, yet we must continue to engage and encourage students interested in pursuing careers in psychiatry, as well as facilitate comparable virtual clinical experiences for students

Gregory W. Dalack, MD, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at University of Michigan School of Medicine, discusses the challenges of leading an academic department in the midst of a pandemic.

The cure should not be worse than the disease; so must we be cautious about our response to COVID-19. More in this video with Harold J. Bursztajn, MD.

Why poetry? As the great Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai said, “When words fail, that’s when poetry begins.”

Nurses are on the front line in the care of COVID-19 patients, and for many years Dr Berlin has admired and resonated with the poetry of nurse practitioner Cortney Davis. Here: a recitation of two of her poems.

The doctors, nurses, aids, food staff, and janitors are among the frontline heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic. They know its ravages best and are most at risk. We mustn't let them down.

In a time of panic, despair, and demoralization, art continues to inspire the author's reflections as it has over the last 40 years. Here, he shares some images that he finds inspirational and helpful. Even in winter there is hope.

What is the nature of the virus turning the world upside down? Dr Sheldon Preskorn shares critical clinical information to better understand the virus, testing, and what might the future hold as we look to turn the corner in this pandemic.

Local, state, and federal officials are rushing to implement massively life-altering measures in the current pandemic even as we enter a situation that is still poorly understood.

Dr John Greden discusses many issues around college mental health and the upheaval the COVID-19 pandemic is causing in this population.

Strange Fruit was written by a Jewish schoolteacher after seeing a disturbing picture of a black man, lynched in the South. But what does this song have to do with the Coronavirus pandemic?

A running theme throughout the virtual meeting was the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for mental health treatment now and after the immediate crisis subsides, both for the public and health professionals.

As we progress further in the COVID-19 crisis, it is even more important for mental health professionals to take care of themselves, so they can be available to provide a much needed service in the best way possible to patients. More in this podcast.

Richard Berlin, MD, recites "COVID-19," by Dr Chris Fitzpatrick. It is a series of haikus strung together to highlight the many moments in hospitals that are happening everywhere in the world. This. Very. Moment.

The public is gripped by fear of COVID-19 and by worry over whether the health system will be able to treat them or their loved ones should they become ill. Consequently, clinical and public health efforts have focused on acute medical care needs of those who are severely affected, while containing the virus’s spread in the population.

Michelle Riba, MD, shares her thoughts on the days ahead.

Ronald Pies, MD, offers advice on talking to patients about spirituality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Virtual happy hours abound, but this is also quite worrisome, especially for those struggling with alcohol and substance use. Alternative solutions are offered in this video.

While anxiety, depression, loneliness, substance abuse. and domestic violence are inevitable consequences of physical isolation and reduced socialization from coronavirus, emotional strain is not limited to COVID-19.

Behavioral health care providers are needed now more than ever to help support frontline caregivers and to provide access to care. Deena Tampi, MSN, MBA-HCA, offers insights about caring for the caregiver as well as providing access to care.

Rajesh R. Tampi, MD, MS, DFAPA, provides guidance for frontline health professionals and caregivers to mitigate stress and burden.

It’s not supposed to happen this way, but when dread pours over and out in this new dark night of the soul, I’m just thankful for anything that makes it stop.

How can psychiatrists help caregivers deal with behavioral disturbances at home, without the possibility of an in-person doctor’s appointment? In this video, Marc E. Agronin, MD, offers tips for helping patients with Alzheimer disease and other dementias.

Whether your goal is to reduce anxiety or increase gratitude, giving thanks in written form can lead to a calmer outlook during this stressful time.

Tips for advocating for yourself and the safety of your patients.

Allen Frances, MD, delivers a powerful message for mental health professionals to help them navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.