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Coping with loneliness, grief during a holiday pandemic

Beaver County Times - 12/22/2020

Dec. 23—The lingering pandemic has amplified feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety for countless Pennsylvanians, particularly as family-oriented holidays approach.

Mental illness is often exacerbated during dark winter months, but this year's COVID-19 restrictions may further compound the need for support and a sense of community among Pennsylvania's most vulnerable.

More resources exist this holiday season for anyone struggling with grief, drug or alcohol addiction and other health concerns, Gov. Tom Wolf's administration said this week.

Mental health resources

A June survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found roughly 25% of American respondents were experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression — a steep increase from the year prior. More Pennsylvanians, too, may feel downhearted this season as public health experts discourage holiday gatherings to stem the spread of COVID-19.

"We know these decisions and spending the year away from loved ones can be incredibly difficult," said Teresa Miller, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

"As we navigate an extremely challenging year, many of us may be feeling feelings we normally don't, or those feelings are becoming more difficult to work through alone. That's OK."

One available resource is a state-operated COVID-19 crisis helpline called Persevere PA, which connects Pennsylvanians with free crisis counselors available 24/7. By calling 1-855-284-2494, anyone can talk to a trained professional and access local resources as needed.

Another helpline, United Way's 211 hotline, connects residents to local resources by dialing 2-1-1. Those struggling with food insecurity or other financial woes are encouraged to apply for state benefits at www.compass.state.pa.us.

Virtual therapy, too, can offer a reprieve, and a number of websites allow you to search for affordable local options.

Family traditions may look different this year, but Miller said that doesn't mean cutting all social ties. She encourages friends and families to check in with one another virtually — host an online game night or happy hour, share a meal and check in more than usual until it's once again safe to gather.

It's important to be honest about how you feel with both yourself and loved ones, Miller said.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available by calling 1-800-273-8255. Help can also be accessed through the crisis text line by texting "PA" to 741-741. Spanish speakers who need immediate assistance can call 1-888-628-9454.

Substance abuse resources

The holidays may be especially challenging for those struggling with a substance use disorder — in-person networks are at arm's length this year and daily routines are upended.

Holidays are the most dangerous time of year for substance use and alcohol-related deaths, according to the CDC.

The state's Department of Drug and Alcohol operates a 24/7 helpline connecting callers with local treatment options at 1-800-662-4357. An anonymous chat service offering the same information is also available at www.ddap.pa.gov.

Pennsylvania's opioid crisis is worsening due to COVID-19, said Ray Barishansky, deputy secretary for health preparedness and community protection at the Department of Health. In 2019, prior to the pandemic, about 12 Pennsylvanians died of a drug overdose each day.

Family and friends of those combatting an opioid addiction are asked to provide additional support to loved ones this season, and all are urged to keep life-saving naloxone on hand.

"We understand how difficult it is not being together with our loved ones during the holidays; however, it is essential that we stop all gatherings, even small gatherings, to prevent the spread of COVID-19," said Barishansky. "We must not lose sight, however, of the opioid epidemic that still rages on in our communities. Now is the time to have naloxone on hand, and to assist loved ones in need. Treatment works and recovery is possible."

Learn more about how to obtain naloxone at www.pa.gov/opioids.

For caregivers such as grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins raising children who lost parents, KinConnector helpline professionals can locate a multitude of resources and offer advice. It can be reached by calling 1-866-546-2111 or online at www.kinconnector.org.

Help for older adults

Older Pennsylvanians are at a heightened risk of COVID-19 complications, and families are asked to spend the holidays away from grandparents this year.

This distance can further isolate the state's aging population, especially those without reliable internet access. Faith Haeussler, executive director of the Pennsylvania Council on Aging, reports a 15% increase in seniors who said their mental health had been negatively affected by the virus from May to October.

The council recently released an interactive guide with information and resources to help older adults cultivate a healthy lifestyle during the pandemic. SOLO, or Strengthening Older Lives Online, incorporates ways to combat some of the stressors associated with COVID-19. The initiative also provides virtual small group sessions.

PA Link, too, offers services such as assistive technology, check-in calls and social support. The call center is available by phone at 1-800-753-8827 or online at www.carelink.pa.gov.

Local Area Agencies on Aging, found online, connects seniors and caregivers to meal services, in-home care or other support. Families should help their relatives feel less alone by making sure they have access to a phone, internet and even video chat.

"During this holiday season, if any older adult is struggling emotionally or mentally, we want them to understand they are not alone and many resources do exist to support them," said Aging Secretary Robert Torres.

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