Illinois has launched a new text line for people struggling with concerns during the stay-at-home order.
Anne Tyree is chief operating officer for Centerstone, a nonprofit community healthcare organization which is participating in the help line. The text line is in addition to telehealth services the agency is already offering, Tyree said.
“Our crisis workers are all very good at handling a variety of different kinds of crisis. And so they can also help people connect into your community with the resources that are available to them,” Tyree said.
She said it will help people with practical concerns as well as emotional and mental health worries.
“We can respond to people's needs in the community and link them up to available resources like food shelters or mental health treatment or primary care or refer people whatever whatever your needs are, we'll help them find a way to meet them,” Tyree said.
To get in touch with the helpline, text TALK to 5-5-2-0-2-0. A counselor from a community mental health center will call back within 24 hours. For services in Spanish, text HABLAR to the same number, 5-5-2-0-2-0.
