Welcome to my blog and website!
I am a doctor and clinical researcher that focuses on the prevention of mental health disorders. I have specific clinical and research training in working with adults, children, and families of all ages and diverse backgrounds. I have also written many research articles for academic journals and books. Unfortunately, those journals are mainly read by researchers and academicians. Although studies can move research forward, often this information doesn’t directly reach the people who may benefit the most from it.
The COVID19 crisis pushed me to get out of my comfort zone—academia—and to learn how to use social media and other platforms with the goal of informing the public about strategies to support their mental health during this stressful time. I also hope to raise awareness about important issues related to mental health. During this unprecedented time, I am so privileged to be able to work from home through telehealth. I may get called to the hospital to join the frontliners, but in the meantime, I want to find a way to help, to provide useful information to people. Although I have never done videos, or had a blog or a website, this crisis and the mental health needs that will come with it, have given me the courage to speak outside of academia and share with you what I have learned over 26 years of schooling and working with hundreds of individuals in my medical career.
Thank you for taking a look at the blog and the videos. I have created 7 simple steps to guide you in your journey of coping with COVID19. Remember, you are NOT alone! And it is ok if you are not feeling completely ok right now. The first step is to acknoweldge that things are different now and that having a stress response is normal. I hope these steps, the blog and videos are helpful to you and your loved ones during this difficult time.