Mental Health Resources for Staying Afloat in the Wake of Coronavirus
May 4, 2020
Everybody reacts differently to stress. That’s totally normal. Whether you’re feeling a little bit nervous about COVID-19 but generally okay or your anxiety is at an all time high, we want you to know that you have options and support is available.
Take advantage of virtual and telehealth resources
If you receive insurance through us, you should know that Blue Cross Blue Shield offers a telehealth option. While the option is available for appointments pertaining to your physical health, it also pertains to psychiatric visits.
Though we can’t guarantee what your specific provider will do, many psychiatrists and therapists have been working with their patients to ensure they’re able to access the care they need remotely. If you usually attend meetings for addiction/recovery support, you can find a list of online meetings here.
Consider utilizing mental health apps to help manage your emotions
In this digital age, there are tons of mental health apps that can help you get through tough times - or even just get through your day to day. Whether you need help with practicing mindfulness, calming your anxiety, or generally improving your mood, there’s an app for it.
Some top contenders include Headspace, which is now included as part of our employee benefits program, What’s Up, an app designed to help users manage depression, Clear Fear, which focuses on managing and overcoming anxiety, and the 24 Hours a Day sobriety app. But there are lots more to choose from -- it all depends on what you're looking for and which ones work best for you.
Practice self-care, even when it’s difficult
Taking care of yourself isn’t always easy on a good day, and it becomes much less so when there’s so much going on in the world. Practicing self-care will help you keep up your emotional wellbeing and allow you to tackle the things you need to do each day.
Although self-care isn’t always bubble baths and face masks, we definitely don’t discourage them. However, self-care can be as straightforward as doing that load of laundry that’s been sitting in the basket or reminding yourself to eat breakfast once the kids are up and dressed. It won’t always feel fabulous but it will make a difference.
If you find yourself in crisis, call someone
We understand that the uncertainty and constant change that’s accompanying COVID-19 feels overwhelming everyone. Situations like this often negatively impact people already living with mental health conditions, so if you’re in need of extra support, know that it’s available.
If you find yourself in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or, if you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can access the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741. In an emergency, you can also call your local emergency services by dialing 911.
You can also utilize Health Advocate, our employee assistance program (EAP), and check out the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) article about how you can manage your emotions in the midst of COVID-19.
