Texans Recovering Together Brings Mental Health Help Over the Phone

SAN ANGELO, TX -- Since the pandemic and quarantine began more than six months ago the focus has remained on taking the necessary health precautions to remain healthy. Undoubtedly this has put mental health on the back burner for many individuals.

But seeking help and finding local resources is accessible to everyone in the community.

The state's Crisis Counseling Assistance Program (CCP), as part of the Texans Recovering Together Program, provides short term stress management, and crisis counseling to individuals and groups having psychological reactions to large scale presidentially declared disasters

"Stress and anxiety are common reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic and we want to reduce the perceived stigma of calling a helpline as a sign of weakness," said Sharon Troy, Crisis Counseling Outreach Worker. "We do not limit resource referrals to mental health and substance abuse treatment only and offer referrals for unmet needs due to the effects of COVID-19."

Under normal circumstances, the Texas Recovering Together program offers aid and assistance to individuals impacted by natural disasters by going door-to-door. But in the time of coronavirus, the way outreach is being conducted has been modified.

Telephone crisis outreach workers are currently available to people of the Concho Valley (Coke, Concho, Crockett, Irion, Reagan, Sterling, and Tom Green Counties) who are feeling overwhelmed by the effects of the COVID pandemic. 

People can call the 24/7 support line and be connected to a compassionate counselor who is trained to help the person through the many emotions a person may be feeling as a result of the pandemic. Services are available in English and Spanish. 

In addition to providing aid related to mental health, crisis counseling outreach workers are knowledgeable and caring individuals who can help individuals locate the necessary programs and organizations that can provide further assistance.

"We will help a person take the first steps toward regaining control of their life and rebuilding resilience," said Troy. "We provide emotional support, skill-building, and connection with other agencies to help connect them with recovery. Information shared is 100% anonymous and confidential."