HJAR Nov/Dec 2020

28 NOV / DEC 2020  I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS   Healthcare Briefs Mental Health a Growing Concern During Pandemic As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact communities across the nation, the Amer- ican Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) urges all patients to take steps to help manage the stress, anxiety, depression, and related men- tal health issues that many are feeling. September was National Suicide Prevention Month, so AANP is increasing awareness of the warning signs that a friend or family member may be experiencing a more serious mental health struggle that requires immediate action. “As the pandemic wears on, there is no ques- tion that increased numbers of people are feeling very anxious about their health, economic circum- stances, loved ones and a whole host of related issues,” said AANP President Sophia L. Thomas, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, FNAP, FAANP. “Nurse practitioners [NPs] spend time talking with their patients about these issues, and there are some steps that everyone can take to help lower their anxiety levels, such as improving your self- care, limiting the time you spend watching or reading negative news, connecting with friends and family to feel less isolated and alone, and speaking with a mental health NP or other men- tal health professional about your concerns and a potential treatment plan.” “It is important to remember that you are not alone and that we are all experiencing this upheaval together,” said Thomas. “It is critical to take care of yourself, and also check in with friends, family members, and neighbors to make sure they are coping. For those who are suffering from depression or more serious symptoms of a mental health issue, it’s time to get professional help or reach out to a crisis hotline. The pandemic will most likely be with us for the unforeseeable future, so we must all be vigilant about our men- tal health as well as our physical health.” Signs of anxiety due to the pandemic: • Fear and worry about your health or eco- nomic well-being, or that of your loved ones. • Changes in sleep or eating patterns. • Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. Ways to manage anxiety: • Take care of your body — eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, exercise regularly. • Limit negative news or social media feeds that increase feelings of anxiety. • Connect with friends and families to share feelings and express any concerns you may currently have. • Speak with a mental health NP or other mental health professionals; seek treatment. Warning signs that someone may be at risk for suicide: • Excessive sadness and moodiness. • Withdrawing from contact and activities with friends and family. • Changes in personality or changes in appearance. • Dangerous, reckless, or self-destructive behavior. Ways to help someone who may be at risk for suicide: • Reach out to urge them to talk about their feelings. • Encourage them to speak to a mental health professional, a crisis center, or a sui- cide hotline. • Check-in with them regularly to ensure they are getting the help they need. • Note that the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is (800) 273-TALK (8255) for English speakers, and (888) 628-9454 for Spanish speakers. Tyler Brockman, DO, Joins Fayetteville Family Clinic Tyler Brockman, DO, recently joined Washing- ton Regional Fayetteville Family Clinic where he works alongside Taesha Winford, APRN, to pro- vide comprehensive medical care for adults and children of all ages. Brockman received an undergraduate degree at the University of Arkansas, a medical degree from Kansas City University, and completed the Clarkson Family Medicine Residency in Omaha, Nebraska. He is a member of the American Acad- emy of Family Physicians and the American Board of Family Medicine. NirvanaManning, MD, Named Chair of UAMS Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nirvana Manning, MD, has been named chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecol- ogy at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sci- ences (UAMS). “Dr. Manning has strived to provide the very best for our patients, students and trainees since joining our faculty in 2007, and in her current role as director and medical director of wom- en’s health services,” said Christopher T. West- fall, MD, executive vice chancellor of UAMS and dean of the College of Medicine. “She will bring her expertise, energy and strong commitment to providing the highest quality of care and exem- plary education to her role as chair.” Manning has held important roles in a number of recent advancements in women’s health at UAMS, including the newly opened UAMS Health Women’s Center at 6119 Midtown Ave. Manning was also instrumental in bringing the Mamava pri- vate lactation spaces to campus, implementing the nationally accredited CenteringPregnancy group prenatal program, and achieving Center of Excellence status from the Society of Obstet- ric Anesthesia and perinatology. She also was involved with launching the UAMS Institute for Digital Health & Innovation’s new FCC-funded program to leverage digital health technology to treat patients for COVID-19 and share vital medical information with patients and healthcare providers across Arkansas. Manning earned an undergraduate degree in economics and biology, graduating cum laude, from Vanderbilt University and came to UAMS for medical school. After graduating in 2003, she remained at UAMS for a residency in obstetrics and gynecology. Early leadership roles included directing the clinic at Freeway Medical Women’s Clinic and the West Little Rock Women’s Clinic in 2011-2015, and Tyler Brockman, DO