The COVID-19 pandemic can affect your mental, physical, and emotional well-being, as well as that of those you work with and loved ones. It is natural for community members, especially those who have experienced multiple or compounded effects of the pandemic (such as financial distress, death of friends and family, and other significant stressors), to feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious, and afraid. New York residents are also reeling from incidents of police brutality, racial injustice and inequity, and working to confront centuries of historical trauma experienced by Black communities and other communities of color. These concurrent crises are significant stressors that can affect mental and emotional well-being.
Physical distancing can feel isolating for anyone and can be even more challenging for people who have thoughts of suicide or harming themselves. This document provides guidance to peer practitioners supporting individuals who may be coping with thoughts of suicide or self-harm during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was adapted from the NYC Department of Health’s COVID-19 Guidance for Peers and Community Health Workers Supporting Participants Coping with Thoughts of Suicide to include resources and supports available state-wide. Many thanks to our colleagues at DOHMH for the development of this resource.
Amanda Saake, LMSW, CPRP, NYCPS-P
Special Assistant to the Commissioner
Director of Office of Consumer Affairs
Office of Mental Health
44 Holland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12229
(518) 473-6579 | Amanda.Saake@omh.ny.gov
www.omh.ny.gov