San Andreas, CA…The Calaveras Health and Human Services Agency, Behavioral Health Division supports the wellbeing of our county families, friends and colleagues. When you hear, read or watch news about an outbreak of an infectious disease, you may feel anxious and show signs of stress – even when the outbreak effects people far from where you live and you are at low risk of getting sick. These signs of stress are normal and may be more likely in people or loved ones of parts of the world affected by the outbreak. During an infectious disease outbreak, care for our own physical and mental health and reach out in kindness to those affected by the situation.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP COPE WITH EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
1. Manage Your Stress
• Stay informed and refer to credible sources for updates on the local situation
• Stay focused on your personal strengths
• Maintain a routine
• Make time to relax and rest

2. Be Informed and Inform Your Family
• Become familiar with local medical and mental health resources in your community
• Avoid sharing unconfirmed news about the infectious disease to avoid creating unnecessary fear and panic
• Give honest age-appropriate information to children and remember to stay calm; children often feel what you feel

3. Connect with Your Community
• Join community and/or faith groups online
• Keep contact with family and friends
• Accept help from family, friends, co-workers and clergy
• Reach out to neighbors and friends with special needs who may need your help

4. Reach Out and Help
• If you know someone effected by the outbreak, call them to see how they are doing, and remember to keep their confidentiality
• Consider an act of kindness for those who have been asked to practice social distancing, such as having a meal delivered or offering to drop off homework at their doorstep
• Locate and volunteer at a charity or organization near you
• Encourage friends and family to get involved

5. Be Sensitive
• Avoid blaming anyone or assuming someone has the disease because of the way they look or where they or their families come from.
• An infectious disease is not connected to any racial or ethnic group; speak up in kindness when you hear false rumors or negative stereotypes that foster racism and prejudice.

Consider seeking professional help if you or a loved one is having difficulty coping.

CALAVERAS COUNTY RESOURCES

Mental Health Crisis Support
1 800 499 3030
OR
209 754 3239 (local)
24 hours a day 7 days a week

Suicide Prevention Line
1 800 273 TALK (8255)
OR
En Espanol, Nacional de Prevencion del Suicidio 1 888 628 9454
24 hours a day 7 days a week

Text: ANSWER to 839863 for help
24 hours a day 7 days a week

California Warm Line
1 855 845 7415 – a non-emergency resource for anyone in California seeking emotional support
24 hours a day 7 days a week

Mental Health Support
1 800 499 3030
ORMental Health Support 499 303R