Supporting a Nation in Crisis: Solutions for Local Leaders to Improve Mental Health and Well-Being During and Post-COVID-19   [open pdf - 0B]

From the Introduction: "During the COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic, social isolation and loneliness caused by social distancing, coupled with overwhelming loss of life and widespread economic crisis, create a perfect storm for affecting Americans' mental health and well-being. We know from prior pandemics and natural disasters that COVID-19 and its implications have the potential to trigger or worsen anxiety, depression, addiction issues, suicide, and other mental health challenges. [...] This action guide is intended for local policymakers and civic institutions (e.g., anchor institutions such as universities, hospitals, and other enduring organizations that play a vital role in their local communities and economies; chambers of commerce; philanthropies; and multi-sector collaboratives). It provides recommendations that can be implemented to address mental health in both the immediate response and recovery phases of the pandemic. This guide also highlights a handful of focus populations uniquely affected by the mental health challenges of COVID-19 and suggests community-specific tactics to address these needs. While this does not represent an exhaustive list, the well-being of these groups has been fundamentally altered by the pandemic."