Counseling line keeps busy amid pandemic

More callers seeking VA COPES’ support for mental health

Calls to Virginia’s VA COPES counseling service for mental health issues raised by the pandemic have soared this year, the state Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services said.

There’s been a 59% increase in the January to March quarter compared to the October-December 2020 period, the department said.

VA COPES is a “warmline” service to respond to mentalhealth issues raised by the pandemic.

“While the COVID-19 vaccine has given us all reason to be hopeful, we know that we will be dealing with the effects of the pandemic, especially for mental health, for some time to come,” department commissioner Alison Land said.

The issues callers raise most often are loneliness, fear of uncertainty, the return of old grief and worries about health or coming down the the virus.

Stress about finances and workplace concerns trouble sleeping and worries about drinking more or using more prescription medications are also common, the department said.

“The VA COPES warmline provides individuals struggling with the anxiety, stress, isolation, and grief of COVID-19 with not only a trained counselor on the other end of the line ready to listen, but a connection to so many important resources that can assist them through this time,” Land said.

Since it was set up by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services in May, 2020, the service has assisted more than 3,000 callers.

Unlike 9-1-1 or other emergency hotlines, VACOPES aims to be an easy way to discuss mental health concerns and to guide people to resources for more help.

The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is extending its support for the service, so that it can continue to operate through November.

VA COPES staff has worked with more than 1,188 organizations and individuals across Virginia to steer callers to those resources.

Counselors receive training from SAMHSA, as well as “stress first aid” and “psychological first aid” training.

The department has partnered with Mental Health America of Virginia and the Virginia Association of Community Services Boards (VACSB) to run the service.

The warmline can be called or texted toll free at 877349-6428 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5 p.m.-9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.