Article and resources by Heidi Herald, Adult Services Librarian
The Covid-19 pandemic has affected us in different ways—physically, mentally, financially, socially, and emotionally. It has affected our homes, workplaces, and schools, and changed how we interact with others. This is difficult for everyone. However, it is especially difficult for people suffering from their mental health and/or substance abuse, and their friends and families. Substance abuse increased in Indiana and across the United States in 2020: likely due to a wide range of factors – including the elevated economic stress and social isolation starting early in 2020 – suspected overdoses in the U.S. have increased by 18% since March 2020. In Indiana, the administration of naloxone – the medicine used to reverse an opioid overdose – by Emergency Medical Services increased by 68% in 2020 compared to January through May 2019, largely due to the impact of COVID-19.1 People who struggle with their mental health may find their symptoms more difficult to manage and the number of people reporting mental health issues has increased. More than 42% of people surveyed by the U.S. Census Bureau in December reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in December, an increase from 11% the previous year.2 We have compiled mental health resource links on several different topics. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help out there. If you would like help finding additional resources, please contact the library and our staff will help you locate available library and community resources. In an emergency, call 911 for help.
1 https://www.insideindianabusiness.com/story/43295290/a-new-model-is-helping-to-develop-workforce-development-strategies-to-fill-talent-gaps 2 https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-00175-z
Discover Guide
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In an emergency, call 911 for help.
Resource Guide Key: Mental Health
M
Well-Being
W
Substance Abuse
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