Mental health specialists are working now to help Americans who are suffering from feelings of despair, hopelessness, and helplessness in order to be able to prevent an increase in suicides among people who are under increased pressure during the coronavirus pandemic.
A report jointly published last week by two foundations that support mental health issues estimates that, unless steps are taken now, the increase in “deaths of despair” from alcohol, drugs, and suicide could increase by 75,000 as a result of COVID-19.
Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate those risks now. For example, by urging elected leaders to make it easier for people who are suffering from mental health issues to get access to mental health care whether or not they are employed.
Please listen to this 4-minute NPR program to learn more about this topic as well as to learn about ways to stay connected and find mental health resources: