Nearly Half Of LA County Is Anxious Or Depressed During Coronavirus Pandemic

Nearly half the people in L.A. County are dealing with anxiety or depression, according to a USC tracking survey of more than 1,000 people. That’s up from 36% a month ago.

The mid-April survey found 57% of 18-34 year olds reporting anxiety or depression. Kyla Thomas, a sociologist at USC who works on the survey told us:

Since many young adults are starting careers and families, they’re especially vulnerable to stress during a crisis, said Dr. Emanuel Maidenberg, a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA.

“I think this is the time when people are most invested in building their future,” he said.

Meanwhile, calls for information and referrals to L.A. County’s mental health helpline were up 20% in March compared with the same month last year.

HOW TO ASK FOR HELP IF YOU (OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW) NEEDS IT:

• Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, 24/7 Access Line 1-800-854-7771, links to COVID-19 information.
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255 (TALK)
• The Crisis Text Line, Text "HOME" (741-741) to reach a trained crisis counselor.
• Steinberg Institute website, links to mental health resources and care throughout California,
• Institute on Aging's 24/7 Friendship Line (especially for people who have disabilities or are over 60), 1-800-971-0016 or call 415-750-4138 to volunteer.
• California Psychological Association Find a Psychologist Locator>>
• Psychology Today guide to therapists>>

GO DEEPER:

• How To Get Past The Coronavirus Crisis Without Losing Your Mental Health

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