COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The holidays are a time of joy and celebration for many. But they can be difficult to navigate for those experiencing loss or facing challenges.
This is why mental health experts want people to be aware of the resources available when needed.
Linda Jakes has worked for Concord Counseling Services for 34 years. She says it’s essential that people know about the resources available during the holiday season.
Jakes says some of the options people have this holiday if they need mental health services are chat counselors and crisis line options by call or text. .
“It’s unprecedented – this year we’ve actually almost tripled the number of calls we normally receive on any given day,” she explained.
Jakes added that his team currently has around 20 people and their profession is also experiencing a shortage.
According to her, the hotline and the chat are good ways to be directed to services even if there is a waiting list.
“The emotional support line – to help you get through this until you can see someone face to face is really helpful.”
The pandemic, says Jakes, has been a trigger for many people, whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a job, stress, any number of things.
During a press conference on December 8, city leaders also discussed the violence the city faced in 2021 and the record number of homicides.
“There will be empty chairs in our community this Christmas,” said Director of Public Safety Robert Clark.
Jakes says now is the time to check on family and friends. Ask them how they are and if they need help.
She says if there’s a silver lining to the pandemic, it’s that people are more open to discussing mental health.
“It’s a wonderful thing that people are willing to look at how they manage their mental health the same way they manage every other part of their body.”
Again, a crisis hotline is available with several ways to reach out.
Here is a list of emergency/crisis numbers and more information for getting help with Concord Counseling Services.
- Netcare Access: 614-276-2273
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: 614-221-5445
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
- Crisis text line: Send 4hope to 741 741
- Poison Control Line: 800-222-1222
- Dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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