As the COVID-19 public health pandemic continues there is added stress for many people and multiple avenues are open for mental health care. Social distancing, self-isolation, and quarantine have become common in recent weeks and with that normal ways of life have altered. Bobbie Wulf with Washington County Mental Health and Disability Services says there are local options available for mental health care by phone or through telehealth, “Obviously there’s a lot more stressors and we want to reach out, let people know to please contact your mental health providers if you’re needing services. Services are still happening.”

Another option is Iowa Concern, a free service provided through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. It provides Iowans access to stress counselors, attorneys, and referral services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Iowa Concern has a toll-free phone number and live chat options to assist Iowans. The service is free and confidential. The Iowa Concern website now has a section on COVID-19 and resources available. Click here to visit the Iowa Concern website.