March 18th, 2020- – Central Illinois residents experiencing stress and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic or other issues in their lives can call a free, emotional support hotline operated by Memorial Behavioral Health.
The hotline, 217-588-5509, operated by trained mental health professionals, will operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, for the foreseeable future. “During this time of uncertainty, it is normal to be feeling anxious, confused or concerned,” said Diana Knaebe, administrator of behavioral health for Memorial Health System.
Anyone in central Illinois can call this hotline, she said. If callers need services beyond their initial call, they will be directed to other providers at Memorial Behavioral Health. Memorial Behavioral Health is providing telehealth and phone appointments for its patients, Knaebe said. Other free and confidential options for people dealing with mental health issues include the national Crisis Text Line, which can be reached at 741741, and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 or 1-800-273-TALK. Both of those services operate 24 hours a day.
