Bassett Healthcare Network Announces New Emotional Support Helpline: 607-322-0157

As phase one of reopening New York during COVID-19 unfolds, Bassett Healthcare Network has established a new dedicated emotional support helpline, 607-322-0157. The helpline is available 24/7 and provides free, confidential support to help callers experiencing increased anxiety, a sense of being overwhelmed, depression, or similar feelings during this pandemic. Trained mental health professionals staff the emotional support helpline, and, if needed, they can connect the caller with follow-up professional help after the initial counseling call.

Feeling Stressed?

You're preoccupied and having difficulty focusing. Your sleep isn't great. You aren't eating as well as you know you should, or as well as you do normally.
It's perfectly understandable to be anxious during a situation like the one the world is in right now. However, chronic stress isn't good for your body or mind. It’s important to take the time and steps necessary to help ease the pressure you’re feeling, including calling Bassett’s helpline, 607-322-0157, if the stress is overwhelming.

Recognize the Signs of Stress

How do you know if your mental health is suffering during this pandemic? The signs of stress are not always obvious; they may include:

• Trouble sleeping.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Changes in your eating patterns.
• A worsening of chronic health problems.
• A worsening of depression or other mental health conditions.
• A rise in your use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.
• Fearful thoughts about your health, and the health of your family and friends.

Take Positive Steps to Feel Better

The following tips may be helpful for coping with these stressful times:

• Stay active, and go outside when possible. Exercise is a great way to improve both mental and physical health. 
• Check in with family and friends. Call or have a video chat with your friends and family.
• Become familiar with the facts. Learn more about the virus from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Knowledge can ease anxiety, and help identify fact from fiction.
• Wean yourself off constant news. This can be as easy as turning off the TV. 
• Practice mindfulness. Be in the moment, rather than worrying about what will be coming next.
• Keep to healthy daily routines as much as you can. Whatever you normally do for self-care, keep up with those habits. Same with your daily schedule. 
• Celebrate small wins. Keep track of moments of gratitude and joy. If it helps, write them down to remind yourself later and/or take a picture.

If the above steps don’t calm your anxiety, call the Bassett Healthcare Network emotional support helpline, 607-322-0157 for free, confidential support. You may also want to view additional information from Bassett mental health professionals in this Coping during COVID-19 video, also available on the Bassett Healthcare Network YouTube page and bassett.org.