Resources to help Delawareans in challenging times

The Delaware Children’s Department is sharing mental health and resiliency resources to help families nurture hope during the holiday season and beyond.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed everyone’s way of life in Delaware in so many ways, from causing financial strains to impacting mental health. Even in times of great struggles, however, people can lead hopeful, healthy lives. Here are some tips from the Delaware Children’s Department to help families live resiliently during challenging times:

• When you are feeling overwhelmed, take a break. Go for a walk or try some slow, deep breathing exercises. 
• Focus on your nutrition plan. The foods we put in our bellies give us fuel and energy for the day. A healthy diet of vegetables, lots of water and other healthy foods will set you on a good path.
• Recognize that the holidays will look and feel different, but you can still find moments of joy. Be creative with Zoom gatherings and start new traditions with your children.
• It's never too late to learn new things. Fall in love with learning. Read a good book and expand your horizons.
• Stay connected. While it seems more challenging during this time, reach out to your friends and loved ones. Check in with a phone call or share a meal together virtually.
• Turn off the news and put aside the electronics, and surround yourself with activities you love. Be present in the moment.

• No one has to go through challenging times alone. Help is available. If a child is experiencing a mental health crisis, reach out to the Child Priority Response Line at 1-800-969-HELP. Youth can always text DE to 741-741 for support. For those 18 years or older, the Delaware Division of Substance Abuse & Mental Health Crisis Intervention Services – Mobile Crisis can be reached statewide at 800-652-2929. The Delaware Hope Line is available at 1-833-9-HOPEDE or 833-946-7333.

• Connect with mental health resources. It's so important to practice self-care year-round, especially in times of high stress. Counseling and peer support can help build resilience, manage stress and promote good mental health. Research the professionals in your area. Do an internet search of peer support or online support groups, and check resources like National Alliance on Mental Illness Delaware at namidelaware.org, the Mental Health Association in Delaware at mhainde.org  or the Delaware Psychological Association at depsych.org.

Mental Health Supports

• Delaware’s Child Priority Response Hotline (for youth in mental health crisis): 1-800-969-HELP (4357) 
• Crisis Text Line (for youth): Text DE to 741-741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
• DSCYF Access Unit (for general mental health questions and to be connected to resources): Call 1-800-722-7710 or email DSCYF_Intake_General@delaware.gov
• Delaware Division of Substance Abuse & Mental Health Crisis Intervention Services – Mobile Crisis (for those age 18 or older):

• • Statewide: 800-652-2929
  • Kent/Sussex counties: 800-345-6785

• Delaware Hope Line: 1-833-9-HOPEDE or 833-946-7333
• Help Is Here DE at hopeisherede.com (substance use and mental health information)
• Trauma-Informed Delaware at traumainformedde.org (resources for trauma-informed care and practices).