NAPLES, FLA — It's safe to say that for many of us, the pandemic has taken a toll on our mental health.
Behavioral health specialists say essential workers have the added pressure of being on the front lines during this time.
"In general, we have seen an uptick in behavioral health concerns across the community. It's hard to isolate it," said Dr. Courtney Whitt, the director of Behavioral Health at the Healthcare Network.
To help combat the rise in mental health concerns within this group, the Healthcare Network, is using a $50,000 dollar grant to provide free therapy sessions for essential workers.
"We want to make sure that people know that this is a service and it's not just for those that maybe have a diagnosable condition," said Whitt.
The program will provide at least three free sessions at their Nichols Community Health Center in Naples.
They encourage anyone who fits that description to give them a call, especially if you notice the following signs.
"Whenever things feel out of balance. If it starts to affect our basic nutrition and sleep patterns or activity levels. Or if you're kind of all work and no play and not really finding ways to get our needs met. If we're noticing a lot more stress in our relationships and those feel a little more unbalanced," said Whitt.
If you'd like to set up an appointment, you can call 239-658-3185.
