Source: Mental Health America
Just as individuals with pre-existing physical illness are more likely to get physically ill from the coronavirus, people whose mental health is compromised are at greater risk of experiencing worsening mental illness as a result of the coronavirus – no matter what their mental illness may be.
Clinical anxiety is a concern at times like this. It is understandable and expected that people will experience worry and stress during this time. However, for individuals living with mental health conditions, it is important to know when these natural emotions are becoming anxiety.
Anxiety is a treatable clinical condition that should not be left untreated. Testing for anxiety is simple and takes just a few minutes. It can be done at home using our free, anonymous, and confidential online tools at www.mhascreening.org.
It is important to know that severe anxiety can bring on a panic attack. Panic attacks can mimic heart attacks. Individuals who have never experienced panic attacks may be inclined to go to the ER due to their symptoms, but at this time ERs are inundated. It may be helpful to try to determine what brought on these symptoms and attempt grounding exercises to alleviate the panic. If you feel your life is in danger, please get help immediately.
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center.
text MHA to 741741 at the Crisis Text Line.
call 1-800-985-5990 The national Disaster Distress Helpline.
for medical concerns, call your healthcare provider.
If you need someone to talk to during stressful times:
call 888-404-4430 between 11am and 10pm to reach Nazcare’s Warm Line.
text TalkWithUs to 66746 for 24/7 emotional support.