MHR working hard to combat mental health issues during COVID-19 pandemic

MOUNT VERNON – The COVID-19 pandemic has presented Americans with a wide range of challenges, including increasing instances of mental illness which lead to isolation, depression and even suicide. 

Mental Health & Recovery for Licking and Knox Counties (MHR) is working tirelessly to fight mental illness during the coronavirus pandemic with 18 local volunteers appointed by the Ohio Department of Mental Health (ODMH), the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services (ODADAS) and local county commissioners, the MHR website said. 

Emily Morrison, MHR Community Relations coordinator, spoke with the Mount Vernon News about the current mental health situation in the local community. 

"We have seen crisis calls go up for our area, and the suicide prevention hotlines have also had increased traffic," Morrison told the News. 

"We are in the midst of a nationwide mental health crisis," Kay Spergel, executive director for MHR, said. "The pandemic has presented a major challenge for people living with a mental health condition. Left unaddressed, these mental health challenges could develop into more serious mental health conditions. This is why it’s so important for people to be aware of the risks and warning signs and know how to react when they see them."

Currently, MHR is offering QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) sessions to the public to learn more about mental illness and what people can do to help family members, co-workers and friends who are suffering. Morrison confirmed that her office will be offering more sessions heading into next year. 

When dealing with mental illness in others, there are a few key warning signs to look out for. 

"Extreme mood swings, withdrawing/isolation, sleeping too little or too much, substance abuse, feelings of hopelessness as well as talking about suicide," Morrison said. 

MHR is a recipient of federal and state grants and levies. Its mission has proven to be crucial in difficult times, particularly during a pandemic and the holiday season when those types of issues become more prevalent. 

"If people are feeling stressed, they can call us at 211 and get connected to resources or they can call us at the board," Morrison said. 

The crisis hotline is available 24 hours a day and is completely free and confidential.