Know when to get help for yourself or someone you know.
Almost half of U.S. adults have experienced an impact to their mental health because of worry and stress over Coronavirus. Positive lifestyle changes, like eating healthy, getting exercise, avoiding self-medicating with alcohol or drugs, and practicing relaxation techniques, may help you feel better. But sometimes, that’s not enough.
Here are some of the early warning signs that indicate you might need professional help:
- Loss of interest in daily activities. You don’t care anymore about former hobbies, pastimes or social activities.
- Appetite or weight changes. You have had significant weight loss or gain, such as a 5% change in one month.
- Sleep changes. You either have insomnia, or the opposite, oversleeping.
- Anger or irritability. You feel agitated, restless and short-tempered. Everything and everyone get on your nerves.
- Feeling overwhelmed. You are plagued with excessive worry, sadness or loneliness.
- Loss of energy. You feel fatigued, sluggish and physically drained. Even small tasks are exhausting or take longer to complete.
- Concentration problems. You have trouble focusing, making decisions or remembering things.
- Unexplained aches and pains. You have noticed an increase in headaches, back pain, muscle aches or stomach pain.
If any of this sounds like what you’re going through, we encourage you to talk with a therapist. Sometimes a few sessions are all you need to get back to feeling like yourself again.
Your benefits cover confidential counseling and you can choose the method (phone, video chat or in person) that is best for you:
- MDLIVE: Talk to a therapist from the privacy of your own home. Get started at MDLIVE.com/regence-or, or call 1-888-725-3097, or download the app on your smartphone.
- An in-network provider: Meet in person, by phone or online (if offered by the provider). Search regence.com for an in-network mental health provider.
IN A CRISIS, HERE’S HOW TO GET HELP FAST
- The Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990. This federal crisis hotline is run by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and provides immediate counseling for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to a disaster, such as COVID-19.
- CrisisTextline.org: Text HOME to 741741. This will connect you with a Crisis Counselor by text message.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. Free and confidential support for people in distress, plus prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
Choose Healthy 