HealthyPlusno3Jan5 - Flipbook - Page 7
“ COVID alone didn’t cause a mental health crisis;
rather, it simply added fuel to an already very
well-burning fire.”
– Katie Baroody, LCMHC, NCC
or a financial crisis—it’s more likely the result of
an ongoing issue or even lifelong circumstance.
Baroody says, “There are a tremendous number of
social and economic factors that impact the quality
and trajectory of an individual’s life. Things like
a lack of equitable access to education, affordable
healthcare, and childcare along with concerns about
physical safety and financial security. Add to that
the impact of mental health diagnoses, racism,
homophobia, abuse, and other traumas. This all
negatively contributes to the sense of not being in
control. That then leads to feelings of hopelessness
for a positive, happy future.”
COVID’s compounding influence
According to the World Health Organization,
the global prevalence of anxiety and depression
increased by a massive 25% in the first year of the
pandemic. But, as Baroody notes, “COVID alone
didn’t cause a mental health crisis; rather, it simply
added fuel to an already very well-burning fire.”
For those who already lived with a sense of a
loss of control, the feelings only grew. And, most
importantly, the loss of meaningful connections,
which we all experienced, compounded the sense
of isolation.
“COVID was very much a trauma which robbed
us of the normal connections that provide some
relief from stress and anxiety” says Baroody. “Now
that it’s largely behind us, we need to reforge the
connections that offer opportunities for hope.”
Finding hope through connection
Baroody says the best preventive measure for
depression is connection with others.
“Forging connections with others can
dramatically reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety
and depression,” she says. “It doesn’t have to be
a big deal. You can find groups on Facebook or
Instagram with people with whom you share an
interest—maybe a sports team or a musical artist—
or maybe you just live in the same community. You
can even use online forums to find people to meet
with in person for a weekly walk or to share books
at the library. Whatever it is and whatever the
form, the goal is to genuinely engage with others.
You’ll not only feel less alone, but you’ll also begin
to feel valued, which can help to boost your overall
mental health.” +
Help is at hand
If you or someone you love is experiencing suicidal
thoughts, reach out to these free resources for help.
988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline
Available 24/7 via phone, text, and chat, 988 is a free and
confidential service that connects individuals to trained
crisis counselors who can help with suicidal thoughts,
substance use, mental health crisis, and any other kind of
emotional distress. Counselors can also help people worried
about a loved one who may need crisis suppo.
Dial or text: 988 | Visit: 988lifeline.org
Crisis Text Line| Text "DESERVE" to 741-741
Lifeline Crisis Chat
Live online messaging: suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/
National Hopeline Network
1-800-SUICIDE (800-784-2433)
Self-Harm Hotline
1-800-DONT CUT (1-800-366-8288)
Veterans Crisis Line
24/7, confidential crisis suppo for Veterans and their loved
ones. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health
care to connect. Dial: 988 and press 1 | Text: 838255
Regional Crisis Lines
MA Emergency Services Program/Mobile Crisis
Intervention | Dial: 1-877-382-1609 and enter your zip code
aer the prompt.
NYS Crisis Text Line | Text: “Got5” to 741-741
VT Crisis Text Line | Text “VT” to 741741
United Counseling Services | 802-442-5491
SVHEALTHCARE .ORG | HEALTHY+ | 5