The COVID-19 pandemic has left many people in our community feeling anxious. The mental health effects of COVID-19 are as important to address as are the physical health effects. To aid individuals during this time of unprecedented uncertainty, we've compiled a range of resources and information to help people address their mental health needs.
Feeling overwhelmed about COVID-19? Help is only a phone call away.
Important Numbers
Crisis Services 24-Hour Hotline: 716-834-3131
24-Hour Addiction Hotline: 716-831-7007
New York State COVID-19 Emotional Support Helpline: 1-844-863-9314 (8am-10pm, 7 days/week)
24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 for TTY
- If you’re unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's 24/7 Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
Deaf/Hard of Hearing
- Text TalkWithUs to 66746
- Use your preferred relay service to call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990
- TTY 1-800-846-8517
- Text TalkWithUs to 66746
Spanish Speakers
- Call 1-800-985-5990 and press "2"
- Text Hablanos to 66746
- Call 1-800-985-5990 and press "2"
Outbreaks can be stressful
The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
If you're feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, please visit the CDC's page on how to cope, manage stress, and reduce anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) COVID-19 Resources
SAMHSA recognizes the challenges posed by the current COVID-19 situation and is providing the following guidance and resources to assist individuals, providers, communities, and states across the country.
New York State Office of Mental Health COVID-19 Resources
The COVID-19 pandemic has left many New Yorkers feeling anxious and stressed. Visit the NYS Office of Mental Health's COVID-19 Resources page for resources and guidance.
Erie County Department of Mental Health COVID-19 Resources
For resources about the mental health aspect of this trying time, please visit: https://www2.erie.gov/mentalhealth/index.php?q=covid-19-resources-0
Visit the Erie County Anti-Stigma Coalition for information on what you can do to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in Erie County.
Rehab Spot Addiction and Recovery Information
Rehab Spot helps those struggling with addiction and their families find the information, support, and resources needed to get help. Reach out to a dedicated treatment professional and learn how you can create the life you want.
Addiction Center Referral Service
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has forced most of the country into lockdown, rehab centers are still open. AddictionCenter.com is a referral service that provides information about addiction treatment practitioners and facilities.
Helping Children Cope with Emergencies
Regardless of your child’s age, he or she may feel upset or have other strong emotions after an emergency. Some children react right away, while others may show signs of difficulty much later. How a child reacts and the common signs of distress can vary according to the child’s age, previous experiences, and how the child typically copes with stress.
Visit the CDC website to learn how to help children cope with emergencies and access guidance on how to talk to children about COVID-19.
We're Fighting Together. Let's Do Our Part to Reduce Stigma
It is important to remember that people – including those of Asian descent – who do not live in or have not recently been in an area of ongoing spread of the virus that causes COVID-19, or have not been in contact with a person who is a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 are not at greater risk of spreading COVID-19 than other Americans.
Some groups of people who may be experiencing stigma because of COVID-19 include:
- Persons of Asian descent
- People who have traveled
- Emergency responders or healthcare professionals
Visit the CDC website to learn how we can all reduce stigma. Everyone can help stop stigma related to COVID-19 by knowing the facts and sharing them with others in your community.
Visit the Erie County Anti-Stigma Coalition for information on what you can do to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in Erie County.
