Local News Taking care of mental health amid Coronavirus fears Lori Buhring 11:30 PM, Mar – WTXL ABC 27

TALLAHASSEE, Fl. (WTXL) — Information continues to pour out each day on the Coronavirus and how to keep people safe. However, the issue of mental health when it comes to Coronavirus fears has not been elevated enough, according to Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey.

Mayor Dailey is promoting conversations surrounding mental health alongside Dr. Jay Reeve. “There’s a lot of anxiety around the future, there’s a lot of anxiety about the economy, there’s a lot of anxiety about what’s going to happen next,” said Dr. Reeve, the President of the Apalachee Center.

Dr. Reeve explained that anxiety puts people into flight or fight modes. “There’s not a lot people can do to either fight or flee right now,” said Dr. Reeve. “So, the thing about heightened states of anxiety is that they tend to heighten every mental health system. If you’re depressed, there’s a chance to get more depressed. If you’re anxious, you’re obviously getting more anxious. If you’ve got problems with anger, there’s a chance of getting angrier.”

People who fight with anxiety should do anxiety reduction activities such as meditation, exercise, structured activities, and a lot of contact with support systems. “I think that we will all be faced with the monotony of being at home,” said Mayor Dailey. “So, it’s important to try new things, do different things, get out, get some exercise, spend time with your family and not just sit on the couch and watch movies all day.”

Reeve says the Apalachee Center is continuing to have their doors open for in-patient and out-patient services. His office is working to figure out how to work remotely without shutting their doors. Reeve also explained that master level counselors are available to talk to anyone 24 hours a day at free of charge.

The number to speak to someone is 1-800-342-0774.