Mental health & disease crises is the theme of this podcast episode. Building mental stability, either as an individual or family, is always a benefit. But in times of disease crisis, such as a pandemic, the effort becomes critical. Hosts, author, Ann Clark McFarland, and her husband, Dr. Tim McFarland, talk with podcast guest, Rebecca Jones, a Christian counseling graduate student, about the unexpected event of disease crises such as Covid19 and how it impacts mental health. Disease crises affect our mental health in different ways.In times of disease crises, families and individuals face unforeseen challenges. However, everyone does not experiences the crises in the same way. The idea that “we are all in this together” is good, but we are actually “in it” and experiencing “it” (the crisis) in many different ways.The “new normal” seems abnormal and reminds us of loss.In addition, the “new normal” often reminds individuals or families of the losses they have experienced. For example, the smaller losses might include the inability to use prior methods of coping, which may not be available or permitted in the “new normal.” Larger losses, such as the loss of a loved one, loss of health, work, ability, or routines, can supercharge the emotions of sadness, anger, and fear. Disease crises holds both a physical and mental challenge.Recognize that coping with disease is both a physical and mental challenge. Take the first step of acknowledging the challenge. Don’t ignore or avoid building better mental health strategies in your life. Learn to identify mental health problems, find resources, and adopt best behavior practices during times of disease crises. The effort you make can make you more resilient in future crises times, and if you are part of a family, the work of building better mental health strategies can lead to better functioning homes and relationships.Helpful ResourcesAdditional resources: Dr. Bessel Van see Kolk’s website (has details on schedule and why as well as great article for single adults)Virtual Hope Box is an app that helps teach calming/relaxation techniques (like deep breathing and meditation) as well as a few other things and resources within. Podcast Timeline & TipsMD Talk: Mental Health & Disease Crises is the third and final episode concerning the unexpected virus season of Covid 19. The first episode, MD Talk: Virus Habits and History, explains the behavior and structure of a virus and explores contradictions and assumptions about viruses. The second episode, MD Talk: Virus Combat Tips, identifies ways to fight virus impact and spread and boost the immune system.Future podcast episodes will focus on non Covid 19 topics. Theme subjects will be unexpected events in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.Join us again soon as we bring to light unexpected STEM and faith stories.