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Along with celebration and joy, another aspect of the holiday season looms large for many people: Stress and anxiety.
The “holiday blues” is a well-known phenomenon that may be amplified this year by pandemic stress. A recent study from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a significant increase in anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and alcohol abuse during the pandemic.
Here in West Virginia, overdoses are again on the rise. Data shows similar escalation in rates of depression and anxiety. Now that many people are faced with unemployment, the loss of loved ones or spending Christmas alone, the emotional toll could be enormous.
West Virginia has many helplines to assist in connecting people with resources. First Choice Services, which operates several helplines, will have staff available throughout the holiday, with many programs even operating 24/7, including Christmas Day. Available services include:
HELP304
Those dealing with anxiety, depression or COVID-related stress call talk directly to a crisis counselor for free, 24/7. No appointments are necessary. A weekly online support group is also available. Call 877-HELP-304, text 877-4357-304 or visit www.HELP304.com for online chat.
HELP4WV
Those seeking referrals for mental health or addiction treatment can reach a helpline specialist 24/7. Specialists are trained to provide information and assist with referrals. Most callers are able to receive treatment within 24 hours of their initial call. Children’s crisis services and peer recovery coaching is also available. Call 844-HELP-4WV, text 844-435-7498 or visit www.HELP4WV.com for online chat.
1800GAMBLER
During the pandemic, limited video lottery has had record revenues. Sports betting via mobile app is now legally available and heavily advertised. This 24/7 helpline offers free, private help for those who are struggling with problem gambling. Telehealth appointments and online support groups are also available. Call 800-GAMBLER or visit 1800GAMBLER.net for online chat.
Suicide Lifeline
Depression and thoughts of suicide have risen during the pandemic. The lifeline is answered by trained, caring professionals who are ready to listen and help support callers experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional crises. This line can be reached 24/7 by calling 800-273-TALK.
211
Record unemployment has forced many to seek financial assistance to pay their bills or feed their families. First Choice Services partners with the United Ways of West Virginia to offer this 24/7 helpline for those seeking information about local resources to assist with many different emergency needs. Call 211 or 833-848-9905 or text your zip code to 898211 or visit WV211.org for online chat.
Tobacco Quitline
Despite the dangers of COVID, which largely affects the lungs, there is no evidence that smoking or vaping rates are declining. According to the American Lung Association, West Virginia has the highest rate of smoking in the country. The Quitline offers free nicotine replacement therapy (medication, gum, lozenges) and expert advice from Quitline coaches. Help is available from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday by calling 800-QUIT-NOW, texting 304-583-4010, or visiting WVTobaccoQuitline.com for online chat, or to complete online enrollment.
WV Navigator
Massive job loss means many have lost their employer-based health insurance. Open enrollment for marketplace health insurance closes Tuesday. The WV Navigator program offers free, expert assistance choosing a plan. Typically, 86% of callers qualify for a financial subsidy to purchase insurance, and navigators can also enroll callers in WV Medicaid if they qualify. Help is available 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 844-WV-CARES or visit WVNavigator.com for online chat.
Jobs & Hope
Finding employment during a pandemic can be difficult, but this service can help. Callers are connected to a specialist who links them with education, training and employment. Special emphasis is placed on assisting those in recovery who have barriers to employment. This line can be reached 24/7 by calling 833-784-1385 or by visiting JobsAndHope.WV.gov.
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