Let’s Not Let Social Distancing Become Isolating
In the best of times, isolation and fears of not belonging can gnaw at us. As we enter this time of public health crisis this could grow in severity. Those who are emotionally fragile may become experience deeper isolation. Those who had no severe mental health issues may develop them.
College and High School Students who have been removed from their social settings may find themselves vulnerable. The older members of our friends, family, and neighborhoods may feel deeper loneliness and experience suspicion. Those who already are fragile may find their mental health worsening.
Keeping a watchful and protective eye on some people may be an obvious step because of their age or what we know of them. Others may not appear to want our help or presence but may be in real need.
The rule of thumb seems to be to check in with everyone. Ask people frequently how they are doing. Offer to get them groceries or to bring them a meal. Drop a card or make a phone call to people you have not heard from in a long time. You know yourself and what approach will be best for you.
And if you need assistance, here are some resources:
The NAMI HelpLine is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health conditions, their family members and caregivers, mental health providers and the public. HelpLine staff and volunteers are experienced, well-trained and able to provide guidance.
They understand, many from their own experiences, listen and offer support.
They are informed on NAMI Programs, NAMI Support Groups and locate your local NAMI Affiliate.
They are trained to help identify the best resource options for your individual concern.
They are knowledgeable and a source of accurate information about relevant topics.
They care.
To contact the NAMI HelpLine, please call 800-950-NAMI (6264), Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., ET, or send an email to info@nami.org. Or text NAMI to 741-741 for help via text.
For immediate crisis and danger, call 911.
If you or someone you know is in crisis—whether they are considering suicide or not—please call the toll-free Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.
And other resources are listed at the National Alliance on Mental Illness website, https://www.nami.org/find-support/nami-helpline. These include National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 800-799-SAFE (7233) and National Sexual Assault Hotline – Call 800-656-HOPE (4673).
I hope, as disciples of Jesus Christ, we can all be courageous, vigilant, protective, generous, and as engaging as our situation allows.
You can contact Fr. Tim at niven@dor.org or at 585-671-1100 x16
Follow him on Facebook at Timothy Niven
and follow St. Rita on Facebook at St. Rita Roman Catholic Church
