For Immediate Release:
Monday, April 27, 2020
Gov. Holcomb announces free mental health resource for Hoosiers during COVID-19
BeWellIndiana.org was curated from mental health experts across the state;
will be useful to Hoosiers coping with issues during and post-pandemic
INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced that the
Indiana Family and Social Services Administration has launched a new website,
BeWellIndiana.org, that will provide Hoosiers with free mental health
resources that have been vetted by experts. The site is designed to help
with the increase in anxiety, depression and other mental health issues
caused by the pandemic, including both first-time issues as well as pre-existing
mental health concerns.
Initially, BeWellIndiana.org will focus on the various mental health challenges
due to COVID-19, but will continue to evolve as a resource beyond the
current crisis.
Hoosiers can visit BeWellIndiana.org to find trusted resources curated
by FSSA’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction, including information
ranging from coping mechanisms, crisis counseling, how to self-monitor
for signs of stress, domestic violence resources, substance use disorder
and recovery, and tips for helping children, youth and teens. Videos featuring
medical experts, persons in recovery and other practicing Indiana clinicians
addressing specific mental health topics are also available on the site.
“It is imperative that we recognize how our mental health is affected
by this pandemic,” Governor Eric J. Holcomb said. “I am proud
of the public/private collaboration and expertise from so many of our
partners captured in this single resource. BeWellIndiana.org is a reflection
of the care and concern our fellow Hoosiers have for one another.”
To help individuals and families cope during this time, there are resources
and recommendations ranging from homeschooling tips, ways to work from
home, information on coping with a job loss, and addressing medical questions
and concerns. The site also includes resources for Hoosiers seeking help
with insurance, unemployment, child care, food insecurity, and more. Experts
agree that one of the best ways to cope throughout this crisis is by staying
informed and taking care of yourself and others as safely as possible.
“We are proud to connect Hoosiers with the mental health resources
to help them be well and stay well,” said Jennifer Sullivan, M.D.,
M.P.H., FSSA secretary. “We acknowledge how the fear and anxiety
about the coronavirus can be overwhelming and trigger strong emotions
and reactions in adults and children. Our hope is to help Hoosiers cope
with that stress so that they can be better for themselves, their families
and their community.”
For Hoosiers experiencing an increase in anxiety, mood swings, loss of
sleep, change in sleep, uncertainty and more, BeWellIndiana.org also provides
a link to simple self-assessments, offered by Mental Health America, to
help users determine if they could benefit from seeking mental health
support. The immediate results provide a quick snapshot of your mental
health and are not to be used as a medical diagnosis.
Click here to download public service announcements (PSAs) recorded by
the state for your use:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/egf210ognxxyx4h/AADYd7E-tBn7P6gtiLSZUiVBa?dl=0
More information about COVID-19 may be found at the ISDH website at
coronavirus.in.gov and the CDC website at
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.