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OTP Newsletter (Updates and a few words about anxiety)

Updates and a few words about anxiety

How’s it going out there everyone?  We’re hoping this newsletter finds you all healthy and safe (and inside!).  This is obviously a situation unlike anything most of us have ever experienced in our lifetimes. Each day is filled with an insane mixture of frightening and sad news and uplifting tales of heroism and selflessness.  Each family has been given the task of helping each other survive and thrive through some completely uncharted territory. From the stories we’ve been hearing, you guys are crushing it so far!

FUN FACT: Giraffes can grow up to 14 feet! However, most just have four.

Our office has continued to adapt to the needs of our families.  We’ve expanded our Telemedicine capabilities.  You can now make an appointment to see any of our doctors for most illnesses or concerns.  It’s very easy to set up and fun to do! For people coming in to the office, we’ve separated our sick times and well times, and have eliminated the use of our waiting room. Families with appointments can call from their car and be brought right into rooms. The American Academy of Pediatrics still discourages delaying most well visits and immunizations.  Call us if you have questions or concerns.

TODAY’S ACTIVITY IDEA: Have your children write notes or draw pictures, and send them to your local senior living facility.  Many of those people have much fewer visitors now and can probably use the smiles!

Finally, a word about anxiety.  In times of stress and turmoil, anxiety is prevalent and can be demonstrated in different ways in different people, including children of all ages.  Even infants who are not understanding the specifics of what is going on can sense the change in routine, and the stress in others.  As stressors continue, your children may be experiencing sleep pattern disturbances, behavioral regression, acting out, or increased fighting among siblings.  All of these things can be signs of anxiety.  While the source of this stress may not be going away soon enough, there are ways to help how you and your family handle these days as they come. There are many online resources with strategies and advice. If you’d like to discuss this with a familiar voice, that’s what we’re here for!  Set up a telemedicine visit and we can share ideas.

Please stay safe, stay isolated, stay healthy.  And let us know if we can help.