Hotline available for emotional support during COVID-19 pandemic
(FOX 2) - Michigan officials are directing anyone who might need support as the COVID-19 takes an emotional toll on people worldwide to a national hotline for help.
During a coronavirus update Thursday, Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy Director for Health suggested Michiganders turn to a national resource.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a Disaster Distress Helpline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for those who are experiencing emotional distress related to any national or human-caused disaster.
That number is 1-800-985-5990. The national helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year. You can also text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
According to SAMHSA, the helpline connects callers to trained counselors from a network of crisis call centers across the U.S. The counselor will listen to you without judgment, and there is no need to provide any identifying information.
(Photo by Adrianna Calvo/Pexels)
The website states the counselors provide:
- “Crisis counseling for people in emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster
- Information on how to recognize distress and its effects on individuals and families
- Tips for healthy coping
- Referrals to local crisis call centers for additional follow-up care and support”
In addition to a helpline, SAMHSA also provides links to resources and information specifically related to COVID-19, click here.