CHARLESTON, W.Va. — There’s been a dramatic spike in calls made to a statewide hotline for crisis counseling and much of that has to do with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
First Choice Services in Charleston, which runs the HELP304 emotional support line, has seen a 66 percent increase in calls since June.
“Things are back open, but people are uncertain about what they should be doing and how they should be behaving,” said Sheila Moran, director of marketing and communication. “They’re very anxious and concerned if they or their loved ones could get COVID.”
Much of the stress and anxiety last year centered around quarantine, which lead to isolation and feelings of loneliness. In the last few months, Moran said they’ve noticed the distress is coming from arguments with personal relationships.
“Spouses, in laws, parents, children — I think we’re seeing a big strain in those relationship right now somewhat related to the pandemic. Some within families are vaccinated, some are not. Some are wearing masks, others are not,” she said.
Anyone who is anxious, depressed or just needs to talk to someone can call any time of day. Moran said it does not have to be about the pandemic. The hotline is about giving people an outlet and creating access to mental health services.
“This line knocks down some of those barriers to mental health services so that people can at least have a crisis counselor there to listen to them,” Moran said.
Moran said stress has gone up even prior to the pandemic.
“West Virginia has consistently been ranked as one of the least mentally healthy states, meaning people tend to be unhappier,” she said.
To reach a counselor, call 1-877-HELP304, text 877-435-7304 or chat at www.help304.com.