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Health Matters: Providence Mission Hospital | 11 T he past two years have been among the most difficult we have weathered as a society. Profound changes to everyday life have led to increased feelings of anxiety and depression. David Ruskin, MD, executive medical director of the Mental Health and Wellness Institute at Providence Mission Hospital, reminds us that help is available. The negative emotional and socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been profound. Social isolation, unemployment, financial distress, as well as mortal fear of COVID-19 itself have all played roles in the development and exacerbation of mental-health and substance-use disorders in our community. The protracted nature of this pandemic, which has in large part paralleled the development of new COVID variants, has only intensified feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. We recognize in our community that there is still stigma associated with mental illness. Yet mental-health and substance- use disorders really are not distinct from other types of illnesses. All are medical illnesses that may respond well to treatment with medications and medical procedures. Still, fears of judgment from loved ones and acquaintances continue to dissuade those suffering from emotional distress from seeking out legitimate medical treatment options. This is why it is so critical that mental illness and chemical dependency be acknowledged, considered and treated with the very same attitudes afforded other forms of medical illness. Mental illness is extremely treatable and can improve functionality immensely. I've encountered so many patients who are intensely hopeless, sometimes so much so that they cannot even fathom getting out of bed. Yet, with the proper treatment, even patients this severely affected can eventually return to personally meaningful and productive lives. We encourage South Orange County community members who might be struggling with their mental health and/or chemical dependency to raise their hand and ask for help. We are here to safely guide you through your recovery journey. The comfort, safety and dignity of our patients are the cornerstones of our programs at Providence Mission Hospital. Now more than ever, our patients desire security and control over who they allow into their treatment journey—and we are here to provide that. —David Ruskin, MD Mental Health Matters The pandemic increased the need for mental health services, and we're here to help. CONTACT US FOR ASSISTANCE: Adult Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization programs: 949-499-7504 Adult Chemical Dependency Program: 949-499-7142 Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program: 949-499-8650 Priscilla Du Preez Photography HOW DO YOU KNOW IF A LOVED ONE IS SUFFERING FROM MENTAL HEALTH AND CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY CHALLENGES? Here are some signs: MENTAL HEALTH • Isolation and withdrawal • Changes in appetite and disruption in sleep patterns • Increased irritability and emotional sensitivity • Loss of interest in pleasurable activities • Loss of motivation and productivity in daily tasks • Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness • Decreased energy and chronic fatigue • Talking about death or dying CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY • Increased use of alcohol or drugs • Relationships and responsibilities are affected • Increased tolerance to achieve the same level of intoxication or desired effect • Withdrawal symptoms if drug or alcohol use is delayed or stopped • Drugs or alcohol are used to alleviate withdrawal symptoms

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