Governor Whitmer Urging Michiganders To Seek Mental Health Help When Needed

whitmer041720
whitmer041720

The focus has been on physical and social distancing and flattening the curve regarding COVID-19, but Governor Gretchen Whitmer is acknowledging this is having an impact beyond that, and she knows people are struggling. In her briefing Friday, she announced the Stay Home, Stay Mindful website in partnership with Headspace, a global leader in mindfulness and meditation. Whitmer says people need to know that if they need help, it is available.

“We know that this has taken a toll on our mental health,” said Whitmer. “We have faced an unprecedented crisis over the course of the last month, and in these uncertain times, making sure that we have access to some mental health support is really important.

“Headspace is a meditation app that some of you may have heard of. Now, every one of you can have access to it online at Headspace.com/Michigan. There’s a special page for Michiganders.”

The website will have access to evidence-based guided meditations.

“Along with at-home mindful workouts, sleep assistance, and content for our kids to help address the rising stress and anxiety we’re all confronting.”

Whitmer also said Friday she wants everyone to know her administration is working to get people the resources they need to work through it.

“The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has launched a statewide hotline for Michiganders whose mental health has been impacted by this COVID-19 crisis,” said the governor. The hotline will operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. at 1-888-PEER-753 or 1-888-799-7753.

The governor also stressed parts of the economy will be reopening as soon as they can safely, and said more information is coming next week regarding that plan.