Gratitude for Red Cross Covid helpline

ELCHE councillor for health Mariola Galiana has thanked volunteers from Miguel Hernández (UMH) psychological service and the Red Cross for attending to 3,700 people ‘during the toughest moments of the health emergency’.

This is specifically for both organisations’ role in helping run the national helpline for people affected by the pandemic, which was established one year ago at the beginning of the emergency.

The service has been provided by a team of more than 200 volunteers from both organisations.

The councillor noted: “Following the health crisis and its negative impact on mental health, we want to inform those affected by this pandemic in particular, and all citizens in general, that they have at their disposal this wonderful telephone service, which is available to those who need it.

“The goal of this service, which provides tools for managing negative emotions, is to provide a response to the needs of those people in situations of loneliness and anguish, who face fear or uncertainty about the consequences of the effects of the pandemic.”

According to details provided by the Red Cross, the indirect consequences of the health emergency, confinement and the restrictions have had a profound impact on the population.

A total of 66% of Spanish people have registered that they have experienced some form of emotional problems during the pandemic. Of these, the most prolific problems were, worries (43.1%), unhappiness (28.9%), and depression (24.9%)

Additionally, 34% reported ongoing sleeping difficulties.

“That is why it is necessary, more than ever, to find innovative solutions such as the one set up by the UMH and Red Cross to provide mental health care and to undertake psychosocial actions in order to accompany the people who need it most,” added Mariola Galiana.

This nationwide service is available by telephoning 900 107 917, on weekdays from 10.00-14.00 and 16.00-20.00.

All calls are anonymous and will be in Spanish.