Coping with Stress
Riverside University Health System–Behavioral Health supports the behavioral health and well-being of Riverside County.
We realize that alarming headlines about a global pandemic, and the precautions we are taking to slow its spread, can raise concerns and increase the stress of everyday life. While the risk of contracting the virus and becoming sick may be very low, it is understandable to be concerned about your own health, as well as that of your family and friends.
At times like this, it is important to remember that you need to care for your own physical and mental health—and to assist others if possible. If you need help, there are resources available that provide support, or just a person ready to talk with you about your fears and feelings.
Try these steps if you are going through emotional distress.
Managing Your Stress
- Refer only to credible sources for updates on the local situation.
- Stay focused on your personal strengths.
- Maintain a routine.
- Make time to relax and rest.
Stay Informed
- Become familiar with local medical and mental health resources in your community. Attend community meetings for resources/education.
- Do not share unconfirmed news about the COVID-19 to avoid creating unnecessary fear and panic.
- Give honest, age-appropriate information to children and remember to stay calm; children often feel what you feel.
Connect with Your Community
- Stay in touch regularly with family and friends.
- Join community and/or faith groups.
- Accept help from family, friends, co-workers and clergy.
- Reach out to neighbors and friends with special needs who may need your help.
Reach Out and Help
- If you know someone affected by the outbreak, call them to see how they are doing, and remember to keep their confidentiality.
- Consider an act of kindness for those who have been asked to go into quarantine or practice social distancing, such as having a meal delivered or offering to drop off homework at their doorstep.
- Locate and volunteer at a charity or organization near you.
- Encourage friends and family to get involved with you.
Be Sensitive
- Avoid blaming anyone or assuming someone has the disease because of the way they look or where they or their families come from.
- An infectious disease is not connected to any racial or ethnic group; speak up in kindness when you hear false rumors or negative stereotypes that foster racism and xenophobia. Consider seeking professional help if you or a loved one are having difficulty coping.
Resources
Call 2-1-1 referrals for health and social services
RUHS Behavioral Health CARES Line: 800-706-7500
Substance Use CARES Line: 800-499-3008
24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care
Provides 24 hour / 7 days / 365 urgent care mental health screening and assessment services and medications to address the needs of those in crisis in a safe, efficient, trauma-informed, and least-restrictive setting.
Riverside: 951-509-2499
9890 County Farm Rd, Riverside, CA 92503
Palm Springs: 442-268-7000
2500 N Palm Canyon Dr, Suite # A4 Palm Springs, CA 92262
Perris: 951-349-4195
85 Ramona Expressway, Suites 1-3 Perris, CA 92571
Riverside Emergency Treatment Services (ETS): (951) 358-4881
9990 County Farm Road, Ste. 4 Riverside, CA 92503
Riverside Crisis Stabilization Services: (760) 863-8600
47-825 Oasis Street, Indio, CA 92201