There is no denying that COVID-19 has affected every part of our communities. Very apparent are the closed businesses, cancellation of events and everyday habits such as eating at a restaurant, going to the park or kids attending school.
What we may not see are those in our communities struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, child abuse, addiction and so much more. The effects of these are long lasting and traumatic for all involved. According to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s office there has been a nearly 40% increase in death by suicide each month since May 2020 within the County. Deaths by suicide have increased greatly with thirty reported January 1 through November 30, 2019. This is an increase from nineteen in 2019 and seventeen in 2018. Sheriff Matt Kendall notes that the 2020 statistics are typically several weeks delayed due to processing which may increase the 2020 totals reported.
“Think about how many people you run into each day and those little connections such as a smile or quick “how are you doing?” When you don’t have that for an entire year what happens to your mental health?” Sheriff Matt Kendall shares his concern over the increase in deaths by suicide, “It’s important that we continue our safety practices with social distancing and masking while balancing social safety and our community’s mental health.”
The increase in mental health concerns with the Covid-19 Shelter in Place orders has been a point of focus around the world and in our local communities. According to National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 persons in the United States struggles with mental illness. Locally supports are provided through Redwood Community Services Crisis Response Services and a non-crisis support Mendocino County Behavioral Health Warm Line. The Crisis Response Services include emergency mental health, evaluation, assessments, intervention, aftercare and follow up services with offices located in both Ukiah and Fort Bragg. With a 24/7 Crisis Hotline anyone in Mendocino County experiencing a mental health emergency has access to support by calling 1-855-838-0404. The Mendocino County Behavioral Health Warm Line is a telephone-based non-crisis support. The Warm Line is available Monday-Saturday 7:30am to 6:00pm by calling 1-707-472-2311 or Toll Free at 1-833-995-2510.
“It can be overwhelming when a loved one is struggling with mental health but getting help doesn't have to be. There is no wrong door when it comes to accessing crisis services. If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health often the first step is to call us on our 24 hour hotline. A crisis worker will be able to guide you to the right location to be seen. We have offices in Ukiah and Ft Bragg and provide face to face services Monday through Friday 8-5. Outside of those business hours we meet individuals who are in a mental health crisis at any of our three emergency departments throughout the county,” shares Sarah Livingston, Redwood Community Services Director of Crisis Services.
The stress response to the Covid-19 pandemic may compound existing stressors and mental health conditions. Social isolation, financial instability, and fear of illness all increase stress putting people at an increased risk for crisis. “The truth is that with the onset of Covid, social distancing, economic stress, and significant changes in our daily lives, the stress can be insurmountable. If you or a loved one had a broken leg you would get them to medical care? We would not say please suffer and let's see how crooked it turns out. We would say let's get it fixed, let's get you comfortable, let's put in the time so it heals correctly. A mental health emergency is no different. Timely, professional care with an open dialogue about wellness can make the difference between further crisis and stabilization,” says Livingston.
Redwood Community Services Crisis Response Services sees anyone regardless of insurance for first crisis intervention. For Mendocino County Medi Cal beneficiaries they provide 60 days of follow up with their team of crisis workers, therapists, and mental health rehabilitation specialists. Individuals with private insurance are connected to their insurance provider for follow up services.
In addition to crisis response services, Redwood Community Services is offering QPR – Question, Persuade, Refer Suicide Prevention virtual training with a one-hour presentation teaching attendees ow to appropriately intervene when someone is having suicidal ideation or attempts, using QPR skills. Classes are being held on Thursday, January 21st 2pm-3pm and Wednesday, January 27th 9am-10am. Registration can be found at www.redwoodcommunityservices.org/training and on the Redwood Community Services Facebook page.
Mental health is a vital piece of your overall health and wellbeing. If you find yourself or a loved one needing support please contact the Warm Line, Crisis Response Services or your healthcare provider. Signs you may need to seek help are stress prevents your daily activities for several days in a row, fear and worry are overwhelming your thoughts, your sleep and eating patterns are markedly changed, you experience worsening of chronic physical health and mental health problems, increased use of tobacco, alcohol and other substances.
For mental health crisis in Mendocino County please call 1-855-838-0404. Also available is the national suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Another resource is the National Crisis Texting Line which is accessed by texting HOME to 741741 and a crisis counselor will listen and respond.
Incorporated in 1995, Redwood Community Services provides services to children, youth, families and adults in Mendocino, Lake & Humboldt Counties. Beginning with the implementation of a Foster Family Agency in 1995 providing foster homes for children & youth in Mendocino County; Redwood Community Services has built a continuum of programs including behavioral health, crisis services, youth and adult residential, substance use disorder programs and youth resource centers. For more information about services Redwood Community Services provides please call 707-467-2000 or visit their website at www.redwoodcommunityservices.org.
