Is the Pandemic Affecting Your Mental Health?
![SCAN Newsletter Issue2 Article9 April 2021](/-/media/scan/images/newsletter_th/scan-club-newsletter-issue-2-april-2021/scan_club_newsletter_art9_880x411_april2021.jpg?h=411&w=880&la=en&hash=22895CA4E2540FDBFA39F26648828593)
So much of our regular behavior has had to change over the past year that you might not even notice the changes that could be signs of a mental health issue. Everyone responds to stressful situations in different ways but there are some things to be on the lookout for:
- You’re eating much more or much less than usual
- You can’t sleep at night and can’t concentrate when awake
- Chronic health problems seem to be getting worse
- You’re drinking or smoking more than you usually do
- You feel lonely, angry, worried or sad most of the time
- It feels overwhelming to do simple things, like fix meals for yourself
- Your heart often races for no reason
If You Need More Help
If a mental health issue keeps you from your daily activities for more than a couple of days, call your doctor. If you are in crisis—if you are thinking of hurting yourself or someone else—call 911 or one of these free and confidential hotlines:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
FriendshipLineCalifornia
1-888-670-1360