The past few months have not been easy for most Virginians. We have faced high rates of unemployment and a global pandemic. As we move into the next phase of reopening, it is important to check in on our own mental health as well as those around us. While the spread of the disease has been closely tracked, the mental health of many Virginians during this time is just now being studied.
There are a ton of resources that can help those who need it most in Virginia. Richmond-based Broad Highway Recovery offers intervention and recovery services for addiction. 1-800-273-TALK (8255) is a hotline used to support those in a crisis. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center lists great state and community organizations that can help you. For instance, the Planning Council, headquartered in Norfolk, seeks to connect the people with solutions and resources they need and can be reached by calling 757-622-9268. Virginia’s chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) focuses on education, support, and advocacy to provide services for a wide range of Virginians in crisis. Visit their website (https://www.namivirginia.org) to view one of their online programs. Another great resource on the Suicide Prevention Resource Center is the Virginia chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This group holds different events to bring awareness to these issues. Go to their website at https://afsp.org/chapter/virginia to see which chapter is closest to you! All of these resources are wonderful, but reaching out to friends and family can also be one of your best tools. Remember that you are not alone and that we will get through this.
Source: ABC 8 News