Crossroads Health offers direct access to support for anyone struggling with the current crisis

By Patricia Nugent

When Governor Mike DeWine announced the stay-at-home order last month, there was a general fear of the unknown and concern about how long this would last and how it would affect the economy, etc. But for those receiving mental health services, that fear was intensified.

Luckily, the staff at Crossroads Health was well-prepared. This community-based nonprofit provides integrated services for recovery and mental health in Lake County.

“We knew it was coming for some time, but just didn’t know when,” says Aaron Burko, who is director of adult community services and psychotherapy outpatient counseling. “Everyone had already been trained. We were able to provide uninterrupted counseling services to our people, through teleconferencing and videoconferencing. I was very impressed with my staff, both managers and direct service providers, on their willingness and tenacity to provide daily support.”

Utilizing Microsoft Teams on Office 365, case managers are able to offer virtual support groups, too, including trauma-related support, senior women’s groups, art groups, LGBTQ support and general peer support.

“We take responsibility for each person’s wellness,” he adds. “And our staff members are making sure their people are getting their medications and food boxes from our local pantry, picking them up and personally delivering them to their homes.”

For anyone dealing with stress during the crisis, Crossroads offers these tips:

• Stay informed. Remember, times like these breed rumors and misinformation. Make sure your resources are reliable.
• Stay healthy. Carve out time for yourself. Relax. Prioritize good nutrition and physical activity for you and your family.
• Keep things in perspective. Limit exposure to upsetting media coverage. Consider keeping a daily journal of positive things in your life.
• Talk about it. Talk to people you trust about your feelings, and to your kids about how they’re dealing with things.
• Seek help if you need it. If you are struggling, help is readily available.

Anyone experiencing Covid-related anxiety can call the Coronavirus Warmline, 440-754-3340, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Crossroads Health is a community-based 501(C)(3) nonprofit with five main locations in Lake County: 8445 Munson Road in Mentor; 9220 Mentor Avenue in Mentor; 1083 Mentor Avenue in Painesville; 35104 Euclid Avenue, Suite 300 in Willoughby; and 2 Success Boulevard at Perry High School in Perry. Call 440-255-1700 or visit CrossroadsHealth.org for more information. The main crisis hotline is 440-953-8255.