Click here for the Hot Springs County Community Resource Guide – This guide includes resources available for support and assistance in Hot Springs County as our community takes measures to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Talking with Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
When children and youth watch news on TV about an infectious disease outbreak, read about it in the news, or overhear others discussing it, they can feel scared, confused, or anxious—as much as adults. This is true even if they live far from where the outbreak is taking place and are at little to no actual risk of getting sick. Young people react to anxiety and stress differently than adults. Some may react right away; others may show signs that they are having a difficult time much later. As such, adults do not always know when a child needs help. This tip sheet will help parents, caregivers, and teachers learn some common reactions, respond in a helpful way, and know when to seek support.

Online Support Community Now Available
In response to the uncertainty and circumstances surrounding COVID-19, Partnership for Drug Free Kids is hosting a series of free, supportive online gatherings for parents and caregivers designed to help you connect with others, and gain helpful insight and ideas.
Learn more and register to participate

Take these steps below to help cope with COVID19 and manage your stress. Visit http://cdc.gov/coronavirus for more information

Click here for Tips for Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation During an Infection Disease Outbreak. It’s important to connect with people during an emergency or crisis to help reduce anxiety, depression, loneliness, and boredom.

Care for Your Caronavirus Anxiety. Click here for daily support for stress and anxiety. You can also text 741741 to talk with a crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line – it’s free, confidential, and available all hours. Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness!

Partnership for Drug Free Kids:
In a Time of Disruption, Protecting Your Child from the Risks of Substance Use
One of the most pressing concerns for many of us is managing daily life with our families under these unusual and trying circumstances around COVID-19. This a great a resource for parents and caregivers to help reduce the potential that our children (who are understandably feeling frustrated, anxious, bored, depressed or isolated) might engage in substance use as a distraction or to self-medicate.

Disaster Distress Helpline
SAMHSA’s 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 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Taking Care of Your Mental Health in the Face of Uncertainty
It’s important to note that we are not helpless in light of current news events.  We can always choose our response.  If you are struggling, here are some things you can do to take care of your mental health in the face of uncertainty.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Stress and Coping
The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.