As COVID-19 takes a toll on mental health, experts urge connection – Longview Daily News

Jenissen suggests people get outside, do something physical or limit their social media and news consumption.

We want to people to reach out if they need help. They dont need to go through stuff alone, she said. Dont give up hope because this is a tough time, but its not forever.

Columbia Wellness Cowlitz County crisis line has seen an increase in calls for more urgent mental health problems, as well as from those looking to talk about their frustrations, McDaniel said. Anyone needing to talk is welcome to call the organizations crisis line, he said.

Crisis is self-defined. It doesnt matter what age you are, whatever the reason, were willing to help you, he said.

Along with stress and anxiety, many people are dealing with grief and loss, including their personal freedom, McDaniel said.

In many cases going to the library, going out to grab an ice cream or sitting at a coffee shop gives them sense of being part of the larger community. Thats now taken away and theyre struggling, he said.

The virus and related restrictions require people to relearn how to communicate and interact while staying safe without feeling like everything has been taken away, McDaniel said. People can use this opportunity to create a new routine, he said, and use times when they feel restricted to reach out to others.

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As COVID-19 takes a toll on mental health, experts urge connection - Longview Daily News