In times of extreme stress, crisis or a mental health emergency, where would you turn? For many people, the answer is a mental health hotline. And amid the coronavirus pandemic, such crisis call centers are seeing a sharp spike in calls. Hard statistics are difficult to come by because this acute crisis is still so new, but anecdotally, many mental health hotlines around the country are reporting a big uptick in calls.
And it makes sense. This pandemic is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and it’s leading to increased stress and anxiety for many people across a range of different areas. From job losses and financial worries to domestic abuse, substance abuse, loneliness and general fears about getting sick or potentially dying, there’s plenty of anxiety to go around right now. Mental health hotlines are doing their best to pick up the slack.
If you’re struggling with mental health during this coronavirus pandemic, calling a hotline might be a good option to help you find a path forward. If you’ve never called a crisis hotline before, here’s what to expect when you do pick up the phone.
