Mental Health and Covid-19

Many health experts are concerned about what kind of impact the coronavirus pandemic will have on people's mental-health and well-being. We are amid a public health crisis, however, we as a community can use this as an opportunity to come together and demonstrate compassion and kindness. It is important to reach out to those who are isolated and need the extra support. In doing so, we hope to spread long term mental well-being and prevent suicide. 

Here are some things you can do to support someone who may need it.

1. Regularly check in on your friends, family, and neighbors.
2. Call or video chat, since texting and social media may not be the best method of connecting.
3. Ask how they are doing during this period of time, how their routines have changed, and what they are doing to cope.
4. Encourage them to keep doing activities that are allowable during this time for their local area. 
5. Help seek medical advice or a counselor.
6. Offer to bring them a meal.
7. Express gratitude and appreciation for any support you have gotten from them.

It is important that we all care for each other during this challenging and uncertain time. By taking a few simple steps you can make all the difference in someone's life when they need it most. 

If you or someone you know is struggling, you can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK).