Even as more and more Minnesotans become fully vaccinated, the number of COVID-19 cases has been steadily rising in our state and others. It is critical that we continue to wear protective masks, maintain social distancing and other safety guidelines, and get vaccinated as soon as possible to help us successfully reach the “other side of that pandemic wall,” both physically and emotionally. The cover story in the latest issue of Scientific American provides a number of strategies on how to “beat pandemic fatigue.”
Likewise, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) maintains a dedicated webpage to help residents cope with COVID-19 and connect to critical tools and resources during these difficult times. For example, the DHS site offers several important tips to stay healthy, ways to relax, and “how to pay attention to your body, feelings, and spirit” so that you can identify the early warning signs of stress and trauma. The webpage also highlights numerous sources to seek help, including Warmlines MN, a telephone hotline that “provides a peer-to-peer approach to mental health support and wellness.” To connect to Warmlines MN, call 651-288-0400 (877-404-3190) or text “support” to 85511. And, if you or someone you know is suffering a mental health crisis related to COVID-19 or any other reason, free support is immediately available by calling 274747 (CRISIS) from a cellular phone or texting “MN” to 741 741.
