Stef McDonald

Pandemic Resources: Mental Health Tips, Public Health News and Community Resources

We know many of our community members remain impacted and concerned about the pandemic. We hope you are safe. To help, we have gathered updates, tips, and resources for you.

Quick Tips

Stay informed and trust only reputable sources for information, including the CDC, Los Angeles Department of Public Health, and the California Department of Public Health. More links for updates in the “COVID-19 Information” section.
Follow advice on prevention, including wearing masks (even after vaccinated), washing hands and refraining from touching your face, social distancing, and staying home if you are ill (more below).
Try to maintain perspective and rely on your social network for support. 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 NAMI to 741-741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor to receive free, 24/7 crisis support via text message
Los Angeles Department of Mental Health 24/7 Helpline: 800-854-7771 (more from the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health)
More help from NAMI

The Latest on Vaccinations

Website for info and appointments: http://VaccinateLACounty.com or http://VacunateLosAngeles.com

Appointment notifications: http://myturn.ca.gov

Visit http://VaccinateALL58.com for COVID-19 vaccination information, facts and updates on eligibility.

Advice For Those With Mental Health Conditions

If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition, consider these tips from NAMI.

For anyone who is unsure about attending therapy sessions outside the home, especially those who the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has described as being at higher risk, you can ask your health care provider about tele-therapy or mental health services online.
For anyone who is worried about access to prescribed medications, you can ask your health care provider about getting 90-day supplies vs. a 60- or 30-day supply. If this is not possible, we encourage you to refill your medications as soon as they are allowed. (Note: If healthcare providers deny/decline making accommodations, challenge the decisions at least three times. Decision-makers on making health plan adjustments may change if/as conditions worsen.)
Listen to and follow advice from your local public health care provider.
Practice self-care, especially if you are in the higher risk population as defined by the CDC. Pay attention to emerging symptoms. Reach out to family and friends (find ways to stay connected while social-distancing guidelines are in place and employ mental health coping strategies).