During these uncertain times, it can be very difficult to manage all that is happening around us:  the pandemic, job and financial insecurities, police brutality leading to protests and community unrest, and uneasiness around the voting process and the election outcome.

The confluence of these events can understandably lead to elevated levels of anxiety or feeling distressed. Talking to friends or families about your feelings can be helpful, but you might need to see a psychiatrist or your primary care physician if you are feeling so stressed that it affects your ability to care for yourself or your family, or if you’re feeling hopeless or struggling with attacks of anxiety or panic.

By Regina James, M.D.,
Chief of the APA Division of Diversity and Health Equity,
Deputy Medical Director, APA

Resources for Mental Well-being

• Taking Care of Family Well-Being (National Child Traumatic Stress Network, NCTSN)
• Coronavirus and Mental Health: Taking Care of Ourselves During Infectious Disease Outbreaks (APA)
• Employee Mental Health & Well-being During & Beyond COVID-19 (APA Foundation's Center for Workplace Mental Health)
• Helping People Manage Stress Associated with the COVID-19 Virus Outbreak (National Center for PTSD)

If you or a family member or friend needs immediate assistance

• Crisis TextLine – Text TALK to 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call 800-273-8255 or Chat with Lifeline
• VA's Veterans Crisis Line – Call 800-273-8255 or text 838255
• Physician Support Line – Call 1-888-409-0141