As mental health for Iowans continues to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach reminds residents of resources they offer coinciding with National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

ISU Human Sciences Specialist Dawn Dunnegan encourages everyone to keep an eye on others and look for signs of mental strain, “Some signs are behavioral and they would include if you recognize someone withdrawing from family and friends. Or if someone you care about has significant sleeping disturbances, sleeping more or less than usual. If you know someone who is getting rid of prized possessions or personal items or they seem to be putting their personal affairs in order. These can be reasons to be concerned. We also know that we need to take into account an increase of drug or alcohol use or a relapse in alcohol or drug use is a reason to be concerned or a warning sign.”

Dunnegan says Extension provides services in all counties through their outreach offices. The ISU Iowa Concern Hotline is available for anyone to speak with a counselor 24/7 at no charge. For more information on resources available and how you can help those in your community visit here.