Mental Health and the Pandemic

MENTAL HEALTH and the PANDEMIC

The month of May has been Mental Health Awareness Month for decades, but never before has the public been more aware of the need for support and treatment than May of 2020. Although this May will undoubtedly go down in the record books as the most stressful in recent history, more people are now beginning to understand that depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses are no more a personal choice than diabetes or heart disease, and that seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength.

It is only after our restrictions begin to lift, however, that we will begin to see some of the damage that the pandemic has wrought on our mental health. Just as we go outside after a bad storm to assess damage to our home and neighborhood, as we begin to gather together over the next weeks and months, we will likely find people experiencing increased mental health symptoms including suicidal ideation, substance use disorders, and domestic violence, including child abuse. Some people, especially first responders, may also be suffering with PTSD.

What should you do if you or someone you know is experiencing mental health problems? (including changes in sleeping and eating patterns, anxiety, depression, improper/overuse of substances, and unusual moods or mood swings) The first step is to reach out for help and the second is not to stop until you get it! Whether it is contacting your physician, a therapist or a crisis line, please pick up the phone and tell someone. Every year, more than 30,000 suburban residents receive mental health services and programs at NAMI DuPage, one of hundreds of National Alliance on Mental illness affiliates throughout the country. For the last 35 years, NAMI DuPage has helped guide individuals and families through the journey to recovery, offering support groups, classes, peer counseling, employment support, and much more. Since March, our programs have been offered online, including peer counseling, support groups, and presentations on parenting, coping with the pandemic and suicide. We also offer a Living Room Program (Emergency Room alternative) onsite which has remained open and will continue to do so. All programs are either free or low-cost.

What makes NAMI unique is that it provides a “lived experience” perspective from individuals in recovery and their family members who have been specially trained to offer support and education. Although many people are now using #YouAreNotAlone, NAMI DuPage has been standing alongside you for decades.

Please visit our website at www.namidupage.org or contact us at 630-752-0066. We will return phone calls within 24 hours, and anticipate a return to our offices soon.

Geri Kerger, MS, JD

Executive Director, NAMI DuPage