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A person's mental health is just as important as their physical health. During times of high anxiety around things we cannot control, it is important to check in with yourself and realize when something may not be right. 

Episodes of depression often follow stressful events. The outbreak of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) may be stressful for people and it is important to remember that everyone reacts differently in high stress situations.

re:MIND has put together a list of important coping mechanisms for helping people in the absence of outside support groups at this time. (re:MIND Social Media Resource List)

1. Get creative about social interaction

  • use technology to see and speak with close friends and family
  • set aside time in each other's schedules to make time speaking together a priority
  • think of "social distancing" as simply "physical distancing" 

2. Establish a routine

  • work on establishing a consistent routine during these periods of being home
  • know some days will be easier than others, but it helps to have certain things be consistent every day

3. Turn off the news

  • While current events are important, it is also good to take a break from the nonstop news coverage to keep perspective

4. Get outside 

  • Depending where you live, time outside is very important to your mental health 
  • Take a walk, read a book outside, remember that even though familiar places may be temporarily closed, time outdoors is still free to use  

Check out this list of resources re:MIND is updating frequently to assist during this period of COVID-19 uncertainty. 

According to the CDC here are a few key points to remember:

People who may respond more strongly to the stress of a crisis include:

  • Older people and people with chronic diseases who are at higher risk for COVID-19
  • Children and teens
  • People who are helping with the response to COVID-19, like doctors and other health care providers, or first responders
  • People who have mental health conditions including problems with substance use

Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:

  • Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
  • Changes in sleep or eating patterns
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
  • Worsening of chronic health problems
  • Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

The above was taken from the CDC who has also put together a helpful resource on "Managing Anxiety and Stress." 

re:MIND is not a crisis service. If you are in need of IMMEDIATE crisis services, please call (713) 970-7000 or the Harris County COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line 24/7: 833-251-7544

Additional Resources can be found below:

Emergency Phone Numbers in Houston

Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE / (800) 784-2433

Crisis Intervention Houston: (832) 416-1177

Mobile Crisis Outreach Team: (713) 970-7520

HPD Mental Health Unit: (713) 970-4664

Gay and Lesbian Switchboard Houston: (713) 529-3211

Houston Police Department: (713) 884-3131

United Way Resource Directories or dial 2-1-1

The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD 24 Hour Crisis Line 713-970-7000

The Harris Center's COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line 833-251-7644

Psychology Today - search for therapists and mental health related resources.

HISD "Let's Stay Connected" Mental Health Hotline for students and parents 713-556-1340