Whether it’s wearing a cloth mask while at the grocery store or keeping a 6-foot distance from a passerby on the street, there are a number of recommendations for staying physically healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
But what about our mental health?
According to Sharon Curran, CEO of Lenape Valley Foundation – a nonprofit based in Bristol and Doylestown that provides crisis services to locals – this is a close “second” on the list of things Americans should work to maintain.
For anyone prone to anxiety or suicidal tendencies, or for those newly suffering because of the pandemic, Curran stressed that there is help available, both on county and state levels.
At Lenape, the majority of its outpatient services, including therapy, have transitioned to video and telephone.
“If somebody is really struggling, we’re doing it over video, an intake assessment, and then even having them see a doctor virtually, potentially a therapist as well,” Curran said. “All of our therapists are working, and we have a therapist who is there to see anybody who hasn’t been assigned yet, so it’s almost like an emergency therapist.”
As for Lenape’s crisis services (which are embedded in Lower Bucks Hospital) and mobile crisis services (which dispatches a team when an individual is experiencing acute issues with disturbed thought or mood that requires immediate intervention), both are still fully operational. The organization has implemented some creative techniques to practice social distancing.
“If families are afraid to come into the emergency room but want to talk about a family member, we’ve met people outside the hospital to do that because there’s concern about walking into an emergency room today,” Curran said.
Curran encouraged anyone struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or drug/alcohol withdrawal or overuse, especially as a direct result of COVID-19, to call the 24/7 crisis hotline at 800-499-7455.
“What we don’t want is people not getting medical care the way that they need it, or not getting their mental health care the way they need it. And all of us who provide that service have a way to get medication to people or to talk to them,” she said. “It’s always easier to treat things early on rather than wait until they escalate.”
Additionally, the state Department of Human Services recently launched a statewide Support & Referral Helpline, which is staffed by caseworkers who are available 24/7 to counsel Pennsylvanians struggling with challenging emotions due to the COVID-19 emergency. They’re able to refer callers to community-based resources that can further help to meet specific needs.
“Pennsylvanians will overcome this crisis together by following the guidance of public health professionals who advise social distancing to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, but physical isolation does not mean social isolation,” said DHS Secretary Teresa Miller. “We must support people where they are during this time of crisis.”
The number to call is 855-284-2494. For TTY, dial 724-631-5600.
“We recognize the significant strain this crisis is putting on families across Pennsylvania, and we want you to know that you do not have to struggle alone. If you need help, reach out,” said Miller. “The compassionate caseworkers staffing the Support & Referral Helpline will be there to answer your call and be a line of support during this difficult time.”
While both hotlines are ready and willing to take calls, Curran shared how individuals can take simple steps in their daily activities to prevent, or at least lessen, feelings of depression and anxiety.
“Try to reach out and make a connection with other people in your life. I know that there are now families doing virtual dinners. The other thing is not giving into the temptation, because you’re not leaving your house, to stay in your pajamas all day. We need to get dressed, have a routine, get some exercise, try to eat as healthy as we can and not just lay on the couch and eat potato chips,” she said. “Try to have a routine and really stick to it. Get up in the morning, get dressed, take a shower. Do those normal things that could be easily taken for granted.”
Visit lenapevf.org/ for more information.
Samantha Bambino can be reached at sbambino@newspapermediagroup.com
