Mental health hotlines see increase of callers in crisis, offer guidance and help

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Stress, anxiety and uncertainty about the future are leading more people to call mental health hotlines.

SMA, a mental health group, is talking about how it is handling the increased demand for its services.

Rhonda Harvey, SMA’s chief operating officer, said its crisis hotline has increased from about 250 calls a day to more than 300.

‘Simply amazing’: Sanford residents leave out toilet paper, paper towels for mail carriers

SMA said it is using telecommunications so staffers can talk to clients on their phones or computers to keep the conferences and talks going.

Harvey said it's important to limit time on social media and how much news you watch. Instead she says, focus on the positives like reading a book, spending more time with your family, and enjoying some time outside

SMA’s hotline is 800-539-4228 if you need someone to talk to about what you’re going through.

© 2020 Cox Media Group