NJ Mental Health Cares, the state’s behavioral health information and referral service, will also offer help to people dealing with anxiety and worry related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. New Jerseyans may call (866) 202-HELP (4357) for free, confidential support. (Photo: File photo)
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TRENTON – New Jerseyans feeling the emotional and mental toll of COVID-19 can get support from a special helpline. NJ Mental Health Cares, the state’s behavioral health information and referral service, will also offer help to people dealing with anxiety and worry related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. New Jerseyans may call (866) 202-HELP (4357) for free, confidential support. The helpline will be answered by trained specialists from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. New Jersey Human Services’ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services provides support to the Mental Health Association of New Jersey to operate the line.
“This is a very challenging time for so many of us,” said Carole Johnson, commissioner of NJHS. “We want to make sure that New Jerseyans have a safe space to talk to someone about their worries and concerns. The thoughtful and caring team at NJ Mental Health Cares are here, at the other end of the phone line, to help.”
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“Talking to others and staying connected with friends and family can help reduce anxiety and make people feel more in control,” Valerie Mielke, assistant commissioner, DMHAS. “The trained specialists answering these phones can help callers take care of their mental health during this difficult time.”
“In times of crisis, it is important to pay as much attention to your mental health as your physical health,” said Carolyn Beauchamp, president and chief executive officer, Mental Health Association of New Jersey. “Life has shifted drastically and quickly – this causes us to feel that we are not in control, which adds to the intensity of these emotions.”
Along with providing help for mental health issues related to COVID-19, the NJ Mental Health Cares helpline will also continue to offer general mental health support and referral. It does not provide any medical or financial advice or referrals.
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