One of the silver linings of COVID-19 is the spotlight that has been shone on the
need for more and better mental health resources. The World Health Organization and National Institute of Health have developed guidelines, many states — including Michigan — have developed resources like the WARM line, and best practice research has highlighted the need to provide mental health responses
in a pandemic.
What is equally important is the public health and equity gap in mental health resources
has been exposed for our vulnerable populations. Our mental health crisis is much
bigger than COVID-19. We often forget about the social conditions that contribute
to poor mental health. This includes the public health fall-out as people have lost
their employment and become socially isolated, leading to the inability for many to
have good mental health care.
The COVID-19 disparities should not be surprising. We know that poverty, unemployment
and lack of good physical/mental health care contribute to communities in crisis.
We need to rethink what is involved in mental health treatment. Labeling a mental
health condition does not address the underlying social conditions that directly impact
them. In COVID-19, we have learned that human connection is more important than ever.
But without food, shelter and safety, we cannot hope to sustain good mental health.
We urge you to use the resources available to you:
- — WCC: Remote Learning Support and Resources
- — American Medical Association: Managing Mental Health During COVID-19
- — Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Emotional Well-Being During the COVID-19 Outbreak
- — The Jed Foundation: COVID-19 and Managing Mental Health (children and teen resources)