S1 Ep45: Mental Wellness and Behavioral Health

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and depression due to social isolation, economic hardship, loss, or contracting the virus. A study of 154,000 COVID-19 patients found they were 39% more likely to be diagnosed with depression and 35% more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety.

To improve mental health during the pandemic, engage in enjoyable exercise, eat healthy, limit junk food, caffeine, and alcohol, prioritize sleep, stay connected with loved ones, and monitor news and social media consumption.

Behavioral health is a broader term encompassing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, problem gambling, and other addictions. Mental illness affects a person's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood, impacting daily life. It's influenced by genetics, environment, early life relationships, traumatic events, lifestyle, and brain structure. Recovery is often possible with early treatment.

For mental health support, contact the Mental Health Call Center at 503-988-4888. Oregon Health Plan/Medicaid members can visit the Mental Health & Substance Abuse provider directory or call 503-988-5887. Uninsured individuals can contact agencies on the County Contracted Addiction Services Provider Agency List or call 211. Primary care providers and community organizations like CAIRO, African Family Holistic Health Organization, and Catholic Charities also offer support.

While 2020 data showed a decrease in suicide rates in Oregon, national data indicates an increase among Black adults and children over the past decade. The Racial Equity Support Line (503-575-3764, weekdays 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. PST) offers support for those affected by racism. The Safe + Strong Helpline (1-800-923-HELP (4357)) and website provide resources.

Additional suicide prevention resources:

• 24/7 Suicide Prevention National Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• 24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text “OREGON” to 741741
• Senior Loneliness Line: 503-200-1633
  
  

If someone is suicidal, talk privately, ask directly, take them seriously, encourage them to contact the Lifeline or Crisis Text Line, and stay with them while they do so.

Young people face unique challenges during the pandemic, including isolation, missing milestones, racial injustice, and bullying, which can lead to low self-esteem and behavioral problems. Support from family and friends is crucial. YouthLine (1-877-968-8491; text teen2teen to 839863) offers teen-to-teen crisis help (4 p.m. to 10 p.m. M-F PDT) with adult support 24/7. Other resources include Therapy for Black Girls and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (703-524-7600).

Coping with "change fatigue" from continuous disruptions (pandemic, social issues, inflation, war) can be managed by finding a new rhythm and establishing small routines, such as consistent meal and sleep times.

April is National Minority Health Month, focusing this year on "Give Your Community a Boost" and combating COVID-19 misinformation. The FDA’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity promotes vaccination and boosting through videos featuring diverse communities.

For accessibility, OHA provides information in alternate formats. Contact the Health Information Center at 1-971-673-2411, 711 TTY, or [e-mail].