Framingham ‘Community Hour’ features health pros offering help during pandemic

“What we’re noticing is that kids’ depression levels have really increased,” Parks said. The organization’s Family Resource Center in Framingham offers support groups and programs that advise parents on how to maintain their children’s mental health during isolation.

FRAMINGHAM – While depression, anxiety and loneliness are experienced by many during a time of social distancing, help is available, according to panelists participating in a virtual “Community Hour” hosted this week by Mayor Yvonne Spicer.

Health professionals Diane Gould, of Advocates; Allison L. Parks, of Wayside MetroWest Community Services; and Izzy Rivera, of the Justice Resource Institute were invited to discuss mental health concerns with the public and take questions during the forum held Tuesday afternoon on Zoom.

Panelists emphasized that their organizations are ready and willing to help those who are suffering from depression or other issues during the pandemic.

“There’s a lot of stress in families and for individuals,” said Gould, president and CEO of Advocates. “We’re seeing people who are very isolated as a result of the stay-at-home order – people who are lonely and afraid and anxious.”

Adding to that stress are the uncertainties many now have about their jobs, as businesses remain closed, she said.

“With that comes not only loss of income and the daily structure of life for many people, but loss of identity, loss of self-confidence and pride,” Gould said.

Combined with isolation, these losses can lead to depression, substance abuse and even thoughts of suicide, she said.

But speaking for all three organizations represented in the forum, help is available, Gould added.

“If you are stressed, if you feel like it’s too much, or you’re really worried about someone you love or a neighbor, there is help available,” she said. “You can call us and we will be there for you.”

Advocates offers remote telehealth counseling sessions by phone and Zoom. Psychiatric emergency services are also available by phone for those experiencing mental health or emotional crises. Services and resources specifically for seniors are offered as well.

Parks who is site director at Wayside MetroWest Community Services, said her organization has noticed a greater need for parent support, as children remain separated from their peers.

“What we’re noticing is that kids’ depression levels have really increased,” Parks said. The organization’s Family Resource Center in Framingham offers support groups and programs that advise parents on how to maintain their children’s mental health during isolation.

Help setting up online learning programs at home, as well as virtual play dates and other creative ways to reconnect children with friends, are also offered, she said.

The Family Resource Center offers food and other resources that unemployed families may need, as well as help filing for SNAP benefits and unemployment.

Rivera said the Justice Resource Institute is offering support for immigrant families and refugees who may not be able to receive unemployment benefits or stimulus relief.

Through its RISE program, the organization continues to offer rental assistance and guidance toward legal advice for those facing eviction, he added.

“Limitations or instability of housing can be very difficult for folks.”

Rivera stressed that any individual or family struggling during the pandemic call health and social service providers for support.

“There’s nothing wrong with feeling stressed, or feeling anxiety, or feeling depressed. These are really difficult times,” he said. “This is a moment when you should be reaching out to your providers.”

Panelists emphasized the cultural and linguistic responsiveness of their organizations, which they said allows them to provide support for a diverse community.

One community member asked panelists for advice on supporting family members or friends who are isolated elsewhere, such as in different cities.

“I think we can’t underestimate how really important, how meaningful and how much it matters when someone makes a phone call,” said Gould.

For those who are able, face-to- face contact – even if through a window or 6 feet apart – can relieve stress and depression caused by isolation, she added. Zoom calls and other virtual methods of connecting can help as well.

“I think the thing that matters most to many people is the experience that someone really cares and takes the time to reach out and be as present as possible, even with social distancing,” she added.