Mental Health Resources for Anxiety-Provoking Times

Those of us affected by cancer may have mastered the art of living with uncertainty. And many of us have also reached an understanding of what is in our control and what is not. But even if our mental toolbox includes these skills, there is no denying the impact of COVID-19. We may share feelings of fear and anxiety with many others at this point. And it is understandable if we’re feeling these emotions even more acutely given the various challenges we may be facing. Here are a few resources we thought were especially helpful for you in these uncertain times.

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Strategies for Coping with COVID-19 Fear and Social Isolation

In this recent presentation, Julie Larson, LCSW, provided tools to cope with the emotional impact of fear, uncertainty, and isolation many are experiencing today. She shared strategies for managing anxiety, as well as ideas for staying connected and supported during this unprecedented time.


SHARE is here for you if you need to talk

You can call our Helplines 7 days a week to speak to a trained survivor who has been through your cancer diagnosis and is ready to listen. 

844.ASK.SHARE
844.275.7427

Join a Support Group

Consider joining a virtual or telephone support group to connect with your peers. Fight those feelings of social isolation with an extra dose of social support.

See a listing of all of our support groups.

Get Help

If social distancing and practical concerns of daily living during the pandemic are stressing you out, it may be a good time to seek professional help.

  • Find a Therapist - Many therapists are taking new patients through telehealth.
  • Boris L Henson Foundation - Taraji P Henson’s foundation is sponsoring therapy sessions especially for African American individuals and families.
  • CancerCare - Talk to a social worker who specializes in supporting cancer patients free of charge.
  • Steps Through OC - Ovarian cancer patients receive 6 months of free professional counseling.
  • OCRA Oncology Social Worker - Talk to a social worker who specializes in supporting ovarian cancer patients, free of charge.
  • NY State Emotional Support Helpline - Provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the coronavirus emergency. 
  • NYC Well - New York City focused mental health support helpline and resources.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness -  NAMI provides several avenues of support and resources especially for those affected by mental illness
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else, immediately call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) 

Get Moving

Exercise releases brain chemicals that can reduce anxiety, get you in a good mood, and improve self-esteem and cognitive function.

  • Moving for Life is providing free online classes, including some classes especially for the SHARE community.
  • Carol Michaels Fitness is currently offering free virtual cancer recovery exercise classes, email Carol for more information.
  • Yoga4Cancer has both weekly live classes via zoom and on-demand classes.

Self-Care Ideas 

It’s important to find ways to take care of yourself during stressful times.

Mindful Meditation

Take a stress-reduction break to improve your sense of calm, peace, and balance.

Recursos en Español

 

National Helpline:
844-ASK-SHARE