Free mental health services offered
WEST CHESTER » As the days drag on from the state shutdown caused by the coronavirus crisis, more and more people in Chester County are feeling depressed and anxious, especially if they have lost their job or are struggling financially.
The Chester County commissioners are reminding residents that a full slate of mental health resources are available from the county, free of charge.
“Mental health and well being of our community is paramount even in normal times,” said Commissioner Michele Kichline. “These are unusual and difficult times. We want to be sure (residents) know what resources we have. We will get through this together.”
New statistics from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry shows hundreds of thousands of unemployment claims have been filed in the five-county Philadelphia area, which has been hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis. Nearly 200,000 unemployment claims have been filed in this region, which includes Chester County, between March 22 and April 4, the most recent data available.
“This is an incredible challenging time for all of us,” said Robert Kagel, county administrator. “Between having to wear masks everywhere you go, and not being able to read facial expressions and being cooped up with limited opportunities for exercise, it puts a strain on things.”
Kim Bowman, director of Human Services, said it is normal for residents to feel anxiety, stress and even depression during these times.
“The pandemic has changed our lives considerably,” Bowman said. “We know this is not an easy time, and there are feelings of anxiety, stress and depression. This is a very normal place to be. But support is available and it’s healthy to use that support.
Bowman said all services the county provided before the pandemic are continuing, only remotely. Those who feel they need help, or just someone to talk to, can call 610-344-6640 or email cchumanservices@chesco.org.
Candy Craig, deputy administrator, said feelings of isolation are especially prevalent to those who have recently suffered the loss of a loved one, and going through grief.
“These feelings are normal, and it’s important for people to hear,” Craig said. “This is especially true for people struggling with mental health before the pandemic. People may be unemployed, caring for vulnerable loved ones, or children may be sad or angry and can’t play with or hang out with friends.
Craig said some people can develop a plan on how to manage this new normal, while others will feel overwhelmed and anxious. If so, they should reach out to the resources provided by the county.
Support lines and referral hotlines are still staffed by peer support specialists. There’s even live streamed sessions of yoga, music and other therapeutic activities.
Craig suggest scheduling time for physical activity. For teens, video games can be a great outlet for frustration. And she said the county’s trail system is a great way to keep the body active.
Carol Hawkins, aging care management supervisor at the Chester County Department of Aging, urged senior citizens to take advantage of the county’s services by calling 610344-6350.
“Seniors are more at risk for facing serious illness and they worry about social isolation,” Hawkins said. “Many seniors cannot get out of their homes or see their friends at senior centers. Our Department of Aging is operating on a daily basis, operating in terms of case management and in terms of taking protective service calls. If a senior feels anxious, they should call us.”