COVID Mental Health Resources
Feeling anxious or sad as the Covid pandemic and these uncertain times drag on? Feeling more stressed than usual?
Having to remain socially distant from friends, family members, co-workers and neighbors for months on end can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Common pandemic-related concerns about health, job loss, and childcare exacerbate the stress.
You are not alone
What you are feeling seems is pervasive: You’re definitely not alone.
A Qaulcomm study published this week in the Journal of the American and Medical Association (reported by CNN) found that Google searches for keywords related to “panic” and “anxiety” symptoms spiked higher between mid-March and mid-May than ever before (in the history of the search engine).
This week, too, the Commonwealth Fund reported that not only does the U.S. have the highest number of COVID cases and deaths, it also has the greatest number of mental health sequelae. One-third of the U.S. adults surveyed by the foundation reported feeling stress, anxiety, and great sadness that was difficult to cope with by themselves.
Reach out for help
Sometimes, when you’re feeling down, it’s hard to know where or whom to turn to. You might not have the energy to search for resources.
The Friendship Doctor compiled this list of mostly free COVID Mental Health Resources that you can access by phone or online. If you are struggling and feel alone, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Bookmark this page, print it out for yourself, or share it with a friend who is having a hard time.
We’re all in this together.
COVID Mental Health Resources
To read
- A step-by-step guide for building resilience from the American Psychological Association
- Anxiety resources from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America
- Depression resources
- World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health and Psychosocial Considerations during the COVID Outbreak
- Coping During the COVID-19 Outbreak
- Coping With Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
To find online support
Nonprofessional group focusing on emotional well-being in in-person and online weekly meetings
Online mental health support network for people with or supporting someone with mental health conditions, substance use disorders or stressful life events.
To find treatment
Tips to help find mental health providers in your area and choose the right provider for mental health problems
For 24/7 help in a crisis
- The Crisis Text Line – Text TALK to 741741
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 24/7 trained crisis counselors for you or someone you know is in crisis—whether they are considering suicide or not—at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline – provides 24/7 crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. 1 (800) 985-5990. Press 2 for Spanish-language support.
For help in coping with loss
- Many funeral homes and faith communities offer virtual ways to connect; many local organizations offer grief support services. A good place to start: local National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) affiliates.
- Additional options include local hospices that offer grief therapy free or on a sliding scale or can refer people to local grief support.
8/24/20
Download a PDF copy of this list: COVID MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
Category: OTHER ADVICE