Mental health resources available during COVID-19

As a college student adjusting to a new environment, you may be facing anxiety or depression as well as feelings of isolation or confinement.

We are living in a major world event, and we need to be very careful to take care of our mental health just as much as we do our physical health.

Here are some resources that you can use to reach out if you are struggling or just need an extra boost during this time.

1.      The Counseling Center at USCA is available on weekdays for phone conferences from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are three counselors available. Call 803-641-3609 to schedule a consultation.

2.      There are hotlines available for after-hours mental health emergencies. One specifically designed for use during incidents like a pandemic is the National Disaster Distress Hotline, which you can reach at 1-800-985-5990. Another important hotline to remember is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is 1-800-273-8255. Both of these hotlines have crisis counselors online 24 hours a day.

3.      If you are struggling with a persistent mental health complication, it may be time to reach out for more advanced services. Aiken Barnwell Mental Health Center (ABMHC) along with other private counseling and psychiatric services in the area are now offering telehealth conferences during the time. To reach ABMHC, call 803-641-7700.

4.      Some phone apps and online services, such as Headspace, are offering free subscriptions for “essential workers” during this time to help enlighten workers and protect mental health. Feel free to download apps such as these to get some good relaxation and meditation tips.

5.      If you are having a mental health emergency, such as suicidal thoughts or feelings, please head straight to your nearest emergency room or call an emergency line. Our local facility that accepts inpatient clients is called Aurora Pavilion. You may call 803-641-5900 24 hours a day to reach the assessment office of Aurora.