Sacramento County has experienced increased mental health crisis calls to law enforcement since the COVID-19 public health stay at home order went into effect. Fear and isolation can have a devastating impact on anyone, particularly those who struggle with mental health issues. If you or loved ones need help, there are behavioral health services available to help before there is a mental health crisis.
“As we continue to stay home and practice social distancing, we can expect to feel isolated or worried, but when these feelings grow, we need to be aware of the escalation in order to get support for ourselves and for loved ones,” said Ryan Quist, Sacramento County Behavioral Health Director.
COVID-19 has made connecting remotely a necessity. Recognizing this, health providers are conducting behavioral health appointments via telephone or video telehealth – which allows appointments from the comfort of your own home.
Anyone who has mental health concerns is encouraged to actively seek support and services from their Health Insurance Provider to request telephone or video telehealth services (or, in-person, when available) as behavioral health coverage is a federally-required insurance benefit.
- Over-the-phone assessment and referral to a mental health service provider. Call the Mental Health Access Team: (916) 875-1055, or toll free (888) 881-4881, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Support to youth, and parents/caregivers of youth. Call or text 916-SUPPORT (787-7678), or go to www.thesourcesacramento.com for online chat.
- Guidance on how to approach a loved one about seeking mental health services. Contact the Community Support Team for information and resources: (916) 874-6015, Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Immediate mental health and/or co-occurring substance abuse services. Call the Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic: 916-520-2460
- Mobile Crisis Support Teams who work with law enforcement to provide mental health care while working to maintain community safety when there is a mental health crisis in the community.
Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health
During these unprecedented times of uncertainty, it is important to find ways to manage stress. If you know someone who is struggling, reach out and ask how they are feeling. If you are struggling and need to talk, simply call, 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Hope Cooperative Peer Support Line is also available to talk about feelings of anxiety or who need supportive listening during the COVID-19 pandemic. Call 1-855-502-3224, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Here are some additional mental health resources:
More Helpful Strategies to Cope with Stress
- MAINTAIN ROUTINES of normal sleep and meals.
- STAY INFORMED by seeking out credible sources such as the CDC, WHO, and local government. Limit the amount of time you’re watching news reports that make you feel stressed.
- STAY ACTIVE by exercising and enjoying the outdoors while maintaining social distance.
- STAY CONNECTED. Technology makes this easier than ever!
- Use video-chat, like FaceTime, with friends or family members to prepare and enjoy a meal together.
- Connect with older adults, and for those in congregate living, find ways to safely reach out and let them know they aren’t forgotten.
- When you’re feeling like you are managing your stress, this is a great time to reach out and support others who are in need or are alone and recruit others to do the same. When you need support, don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to others about what you’re feeling.
- EXPRESS GRATITUDE. Many of us know healthcare workers and other essential employees who are tirelessly working on the front lines protecting and serving us. Find ways to say thank you for the hard work they’re doing.
Did you know that studies have shown that helping others also improves your own ability to successfully respond to stress? Sacramento County Department of Health Services challenges everyone to reach out and connect with three people each day in some meaningful way.
- Remember to be sensitive and understanding as everyone responds differently to stress.
- Acknowledge each other’s emotional reactions as normal and to be expected.
- Offer your support and do something nice for someone, even if it’s as simple as having a meal delivered.
