IMPORTANT AGENCY INFORMATION REGARDING COVID-19

During this unprecedented global pandemic, Mental Health America of Southwestern PA is taking the health and well-being of our community, clients, and staff very seriously. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, we will practice social distancing and have temporarily closed the office to the public to protect and care for those who work with us, our clients, and the public.

All non-essential services have been suspended temporarily and vital services are operating in a limited capacity. No walk-in clients are accepted.

We are all in this together. We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will follow guidance from public health officials and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, so we can continue to support our clients and communities as needed.

For more information about COVD-19 and what you can do to keep healthy and safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control website or for information about managing your mental health during these uncertain times.

 

Caring for Your Mental Health in the Era of COVID-19

Taking care of your mental health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is just as important as taking care of your physical health. While the outbreak may be stressful, especially for those who already experience mental health conditions, it is important to take care of yourself and you loved ones during these uncertain times.
The CDC has developed some guidelines for those who are having trouble coming with the fear and anxiety of the situation while our communities recover.
Things you can do to support yourself:
  • Avoid excessive exposure to media coverage of COVID-19.
  • Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs.
  • Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images repeatedly. Try to do some other activities you enjoy to return to your normal life.
  • Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships.
  • Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking.
How to support your child during the outbreak:
  • Take time to talk with your child about the COVID-19 outbreak. Answer questions and share facts about COVID-19 in a way that your child can understand.
  • Reassure your child that they are safe. Let them know if is ok if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so that they can learn how to cope from you.
  • Limit your child’s exposure to media coverage of the event. Children may misinterpret what they hear and can be frightened about something they do not understand.
  • Help your child to have a sense of structure. Once it is safe to return to school or child care, help them return to their regular activity.
  • Be a role model; take breaks, get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat well. Connect with your friends and family members and rely on your social support system.
What are quarantine and social distancing?
  • Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick.
  • Social distancing means remaining out of places where people meet or gather, avoiding local public transportation (e.g., bus, subway, taxi, rideshare), and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others.
If any of your stress reactions interfere with your daily activities for several days in a row, contact a healthcare provider. Know you are not alone and there is help if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline : 1-800-273-8255 (TALK)  

Crisis Text Line: Text PA to 741741

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: