BUTTE — The mental stress created by the coronavirus (COVID-19) can put a strain on anyone.
“I think it’s a difficult time for all of us and if you already have anxiety or depression or any other emotional illness, it’s even worse,” said Behavioral Health Director Jamie Vanderlinden.
The Southwest Montana Community Health Center has counselors on hand to help adults and children during these difficult times.
“We are reaching out and calling people when we can too, because one of the symptoms of anxiety and depression is you lose your motivation, you don’t want to do anything, you don’t want to be around people. The problem is, the less you do when you're anxious, the worse it gets,” said Vanderlinden.
The center sees patients in person and also over the internet to provide mental health services.
“We’re also working on getting some sort of group together by Zoom, which could be kind of a wellness group to support each other,” said Vanderlinden.
Health officials also recommend getting plenty of exercise, because staying active is a good way to deal with anxiety.
“Exercise of any sort is helpful, going for a walk. Changes in temperature are huge, if you’re feeling hot, step outside if your anxiety is rising a lot, a lot of people get warm when they're anxious, their heart starts pounding hard, if you can go outside and go for a little walk sometimes that will help reduce your symptoms,” she said.
Those who need help can call the clinic in Butte at (406) 723-4075.
