Helpful mental health resources available online

PHOTO: The Davis High Counseling Department set up a Google Classroom where they provide information and resources for students as well as encouraging posts. 

By Chloe Chedin,

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

With a lockdown in place and school canceled, the current situation regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) has most likely taken a toll on your mental health. However, there are many online services available that aim to help maintain good mental health even in stressful times like this. 

Download an app

Insight Timer is a free app that offers meditation sessions to reduce anxiety and stress. Stop Panic & Anxiety Self Help is another free app that offers lessons on how to control anxiety and panic.

If human interaction is more important to you, BetterHelp is a free app that connects you with experienced, trained counselors who deal with depression, anxiety and other conditions. 

Utilize hotlines/text lines

The Crisis Text Line is a free, confidential text line that connects you with crisis counselors. This service provides support for you during a crisis or if you just need to talk to someone. To get connected, just text HOME to 741741. 

The California Peer-Run Warm Line is another resource that connects you with counselors who provide emotional support for non-emergency situations. You can either talk to a counselor via phone or through their webchat feature on their website, mentalhealthsf.org. 

Contact your school counselor

The Davis High Counseling Department has also moved their counseling services online in an effort to transfer to distance learning. Counselors are now available via email and virtual meetings. 

“If a student is struggling with mental health issues, they should reach out to talk with their counselor, or tell their parents or a trusted adult in their life so they can get the help they need,” DHS counselor Catherine Pereira said. 

The counseling department has also set up a Google Classroom, which is updated daily. The Classroom provides resources and information for students as well as encouraging posts. You can obtain the code for the Classroom by emailing your counselor. 

Pick up an activity you enjoy

There are also several activities you can do that can help boost your mental health. 

“To foster good mental health during this time, people need to do things that bring them joy. For example, something creative — art, music, writing, dancing, gardening,” said Carol LaPerle, a licensed marriage and family therapist. 

LaPerle also suggested exercising, spending time with a pet or contacting friends and family.

“It’s okay not to be positive all the time, this is a difficult time. […] This time is temporary. It is not expected to go on forever. We can get through anything temporarily,” LaPerle said.