Page 5 - MidWeek - Jan 26, 2022

JANUARY 26, 2022 MIDWEEK 5
A s a clinical psychol- ogist at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children, Bart Pillen counsels patients who have complex needs, includ- ing serious illnesses and med- ical decisions. An administra- tor for the Behavioral Health Division at Hawai‘i Pacific Health, he’s responsible for developing, directing and advancing behavioral health services across the health care
icated and talented team of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner to help patients and families cope with stressful situations and significant mental illness. I provide consultation and support to patients receiving care across our health care system,” he explains.
BART PILLEN, PH.D., chief of behavioral health for Hawai‘i Pacific Health Interviewed by Don Robbins
Mental Health Coping Strategies
How can families and in- dividuals maintain their mental well-being through this pandemic and respond to emotional distress?
Unfortunately, this pandem- ic has turned into a marathon, so most of us have had periods of significant distress, if not depression or anxiety. The key to mental well-being is consis- tency — regularly tuning in and responding to emotional and support needs. The most resilient people respond early to difficulties, while creating opportunities for personal well-being and positive fami- ly or social activities. It’s how you fill the cup, not whether the cup is half full or empty. People often postpone self- care because their focus is on work or family. Sometimes we tell ourselves, “It’s really not that bad.” If you’ ve noticed a pattern in your life where stressful situations become harder to manage or impact your overall functioning and relationships, seek additional
support. Red flags might in- clude longer periods of wor- rying, insomnia, sadness, low motivation and anger.
nitive-behavioral techniques to challenge how you think about yourself and stressful situations.
hands-on learning backed by the use of science-driven in- terventions. Our training in- cluded intensive class work, learning therapy skills and leading community-based prevention programs. Grad- uate school endowed me with a foundational appreci- ation and understanding for how personal well-being is impacted not only by mental health concerns but also by the family, culture, commu- nity and the quality of social support we have in our lives.
system.
“I work alongside a ded-
What tips do you have for starting the new year with a fresh start emotionally and positive perspectives?
Dr. Bart Pillen is shown working with staff at Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children. PHOTOS COURTESY HAWAI‘I PACIFIC HEALTH
activities. These moments don’t happen by accident, so start to intentionally add these experiences into your day. If you feel stuck or in a rut and can’t see your high points, ask someone you admire what they use as a coping strategy. You can also search online for proven approaches to enhance your emotional health: mind- fulness meditations or prayers; “self-efficacy” interventions; suggestions on playfulness, self-compassion and finding moments of “awe”; and cog-
I’ ve always been interest- ed in science and wanted a career in health care. When I was a teenager, I worked with disabled children and adults. It was a true joy for me! That experience helped me to ap- preciate people with cogni- tive, physical and emotional struggles. It also influenced me to pursue an undergraduate degree in psychology at Uni- versity of Nebraska, Lincoln.
In this article, Pillen shares his advice about coping and some personal information.
After earning my under- graduate degree, I entered a clinical and community psy- chology Ph.D. program at DePaul University in Chica- go. The program emphasized
We have seen a dramatic rise in suicidal thoughts, sub- stance abuse and domestic violence during the pandem- ic, so if you have any worries about safety for yourself or others, seek help immediate- ly. A number to call 24/7 is the Hawai‘i Department of Health CARES line at 808-832-3100 (toll-free: 800-753-6879).
What made you decide to choose a career in behav- ioral health?
My go-to tip is: If some- one took a picture or video of you during the high points of your day, what would you be doing? What would you say about your life in these mo- ments? When depressed or exhausted, we often overlook our day’s high points, which reflect our successes, talents and healthy relationships or
Where did you receive your education/training and how has it prepared you?
I am a father and grand- father, and credit my family and loving wife of almost 35 years for our healthy and hap- py home. Being in nature is grounding for me and gives my thinking brain time off. Photography and woodwork- ing help me relax and relate with others and myself in a different way.
What would you like the public to know about your personal life?
A doctor is just a screen away.
Virtual Urgent Care gives you access to physician consultation, diagnosis and treatment for non-emergency conditions through your computer or mobile device. You are why we’re reimagining health care.