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NDMA member Andrew McLean, MD, MPH, shares his viewpoint on the topic of mental health during a community crisis through the American Psychiatric Association (APA) viewpoint. The article, featured on the APA website, shares insights on how his own work in disaster psychiatry stemmed from his personal experience through a natural disaster within his own community of Grand Forks, ND - learning to deal with a severe flood.
While he and his family dealt with risks to their own health and home, he also participated in the city mayor's daily roundtable broadcast to reach out to the community to help keep people in touch through the crisis. Dr. McLean's message became part of the broadcasts where he delivered messages of coping and resilience.
Messaging that was well received by the public included reminders of “the 3 Rs:” obtaining rest and trying to maintain relationships and a semblance of routines.
"Selfcare became a message not only to the public and patients but also to me and my family," said Dr. McLean. "Most important, contributing afforded an opportunity to assist leadership and staff in helping large groups of people and themselves to be as successful and healthy as possible."
Dr. McLean also encourages his psychiatric colleagues to learn, to be available, and lean in when you see how your skills might be of assistance community wide.
Thank you to NDMA member Dr. Andy McLean for sharing your experience and expertise!
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