By Assemblymember Marie Waldron
This has been a tough year for all of us. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in business shutdowns, growing unemployment and extreme economic distress, along with related public health/mental health impacts for thousands. And now, the drawn-out election aftermath and the fast approaching holiday season will be adding to what’s already been one of the most stressful years in decades. Stress and anxiety levels are going through the roof.
We all cope with stress differently, but there are generally agreed upon methods we all can use to keep stress in check. Among these are limiting the amount of time we spend listening to news sources, maintaining supporting relationships with friends and family, eating right, avoiding excessive food and alcohol, and getting plenty of exercise, if we’re able. If stress or anxiety is interfering with daily life, contacting care providers may help. In addition, there are many resources available to help people cope.
I’m listing just a few below:
• National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255
• California Youth Crisis Line: 800-843-5200
• Teen Line: 800-852-8336
• Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-5990
• Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255
• LGBT National Hotline: 800-273-8255
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
• Victims of Crime Resource Center: 800-842-8467
• Substance Abuse/Mental Health Services National Helpline: 800-662-4357
For First Responders:
• Fire/EMS Helpline: 888-731-FIRE
• COPLINE: 800-267-5463
• Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness
For older Californians
• Friendship Line: 888-670-1360
• Aging and Adult Information Line: 800-510-2020
For a more complete list of resources available, please visit: https://covid19.ca.gov/resources-for-emotional-support-and-well-being/
Taking care of mental health is just as important as taking care of physical health. I hope these resources are helpful for you and your loved ones.
Assembly Republican Leader Marie Waldron, R-Escondido, represents the 75th Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes the communities of Bonsall, Escondido, Fallbrook, Hidden Meadows, Pala, Palomar Mountain, Pauma Valley, Rainbow, San Marcos, Temecula, Valley Center and Vista.
