Library Resources for Social Distancers: Reducing Stress

The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. Call 1-800-985-5990, text TalkWithUs to 66746, or use their email or web form to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,1-800-273-TALK (8255), is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness. Chat services are also available on their website.

Highlights only positive (and true!) news stories to counteract the negativity of the general media cycle.

A YouTube channel dedicated to acts of kindness.

An aggregate of positive news stories along with humorous videos, pictures, and jokes.

A YouTube channel focused on meditation and mindfulness.

A TED Talk video playlist of ways to stay healthy emotionally and physically.

Harvard Medical School suggests techniques to help relax, including focusing on breathing, meditation, and more.

The Center for Disease Control's detailed page on stress, symptoms, and suggestions for coping.