Illinois State Senate District 49 issued the following announcement on April 8.
Many Illinoisans have spent weeks self-isolating during the coronavirus outbreak, and some are now feeling more stress and worry due to the unknown and lack of social interaction.
State Senator Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (D-Shorewood) is sharing resources to help people manage their mental health.
“We are living in an unprecedented time where nearly everyone is feeling some type of added stress or anxiety — and that’s OK,” Bertino-Tarrant said. “If you’re struggling with your mental health, please reach out. There are services out there to help you and people who want to help.”
The Will County Chamber of the National Alliance on Mental Health offers specialized resources for individuals who may need assistance through a crisis line. The line is available 24 hours, seven days a week and can be reached at 815-722-3344. The hotline can direct you to a comprehensive suicide hotline, suicide intervention and prevention, and over-the-phone counseling.
Bertino-Tarrant also encourages residents to take simple steps to care for themselves, such as:
• Connecting with friends and family online,
• Keeping regular work hours while at home,
• Preparing healthy meals,
• Exercising regularly, and
• Staying up to date with accurate information.
“While it’s imperative to practice social distancing, social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t still connect with friends and loved ones,” Bertino-Tarrant said. “It’s important to continue to take care of yourself, stick to a routine, and do things that make you happy.”
Original source can be found here.