Bloomberg American Health Initiative
Bloomberg American Health Initiative
Bloomberg Fellows Spotlight: Melissa Box
Bloomberg Fellows Spotlight: Melissa Box
Bloomberg Fellows Spotlight: Melissa Box
Tuesday 27th April 2021
Melissa Box discusses COVID-19's impact on children's health and safety, covering remote therapy, abuse risks, and referrals on The American Health Podcast.
13 minutes
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
Engaging
Motivational
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Author:
Bloomberg American Health Initiative
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Categories:
Policy & Advocacy
Body & Mind
Financial Health in Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Relationships & Community
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Get the buttons here!Melissa Box on Safeguarding Kids During COVID-19
Kids who have severe trauma symptoms, as many of our clients do, might simply feel more secure at home with that trusted caregiver, and it's giving them the time and the space to work on their own healing without having to worry about the school bus and transitions between classes and all of that.
Imagine trying to navigate the complexities of children's health and safety during a global pandemic. Melissa Box, Clinical Director at ABC Counseling and Family Services in Normal, Illinois, shares her frontline experiences on The American Health Podcast. Established in 1992, ABC Counseling aims to support kids and families affected by sexual abuse and those needing adoption services across Central Illinois.
Melissa dives into the pandemic's ripple effects on young lives, touching on education, food security, nutrition, and the increased risks of abuse and neglect. Remote therapy has become a lifeline for many children, offering a safe space where they can open up more freely than in traditional settings. But it’s not all smooth sailing. Melissa also discusses the heightened risks some children face, especially when left under the care of untrained individuals.
She explains how referrals play a crucial role in connecting families to essential counseling services, with two-thirds of their clients coming from other child welfare professionals. Melissa doesn’t shy away from the broader issues either. She reflects on how the current political climate impacts mental health and underscores the importance of gratitude and self-care. Her insights are both eye-opening and deeply empathetic, reminding us all of the vital need to look after ourselves and each other during these tough times.
Tune in to hear Melissa’s heartfelt conversation about safeguarding children’s health and safety amidst unprecedented challenges.