Mental Health & Self-Care Resources
At a time of crisis especially concerned with physical health, it’s easy to let our mental health slide. Social distancing can become isolation, job loss can contribute to despair, and a pandemic can turn into panic.
But mental health and physical health go hand-in-hand. It’s important to take time to practice good self-care each day. Below, you’ll find resources to help you through mental challenges, as well as self-care titles from our eLibrary.
Seek Professional Advice
Mental health resources and assistance in light of COVID-19 are available on a national level, including this CDC webpage, which includes national hotline information and tips for parents, responders, and those released from quarantine.
Several local mental health nonprofits are also continuing to offer services during the shelter in place order.
Common Ground, an Oakland Community Health Network service provider, connects people in a crisis to mental health and substance abuse resources. Call or text their Resource and Crisis Helpline at 1-800-231-1127, or chat with one of their counselors on their website.
Behavioral Health Services for children and adults are also available through Easterseals Michigan, based in Auburn Hills. Visit their website for an anonymous screening or other resources and information.
Domestic violence and sexual assault survivors can find help through the Oakland County-based shelter Haven, which offers a 24-hours crisis and support line at 248-334-1274.
Connect with Others
We can follow the order to distance ourselves from those outside our household, but we don’t have to lose connections entirely. Avoid isolating yourself by connecting to others virtually. Try using free video call programs like Skype, Zoom, Facetime, or Facebook Messenger to reconnect with friends and family.
Unwind
Give yourself regular time to breathe and relax. Read some of the Hoopla titles listed below to learn mindfulness practices and other methods for managing stress and anxiety.
Watch a video to learn more about mindfulness and meditation, or, if you enjoy exercise, try yoga, qigong, or tai chi.
If music influences your mood, listen to some stress relief albums while you go about your day.
If you enjoy art, take a Creativebug class to engage your creativity—maybe their 15-minute course on Meditative Art Journaling.
Unplug
It’s especially difficult now that the internet is fast becoming our sole method of communication, but you may be surprised at how much getting away from social media and the news for a period of time each day can boost your mood.
With other recreational activity centers closed and spring coming into full view, more of us are moving outside to garden, jog, hike, fish, take photos, create a chalk walk, go for a picnic, and enjoy time with our pets. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is keeping state parks open and free during the pandemic, and our Huron-Clinton Metroparks are offering free admission on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
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