COVID-19, Election Anxiety-Dealing With Today’s Stress on Close Up

The Director of the Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier, Keith Leahey is back on the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up this time talking about "election anxiety" that's been piled onto today's worries.

Leahey has been on the program several times since the COVID-19 pandemic first hit in March.  Early conversations are notably focused on the near panic and helplessness many were feeling with the constantly changing information about the deadly virus.

Leahey says it's important to realize that all those fears have not gone away and residents have had added burdens piled on through the summer with social unrest, an ongoing impact of the pandemic on personal finances and the broader economy.

Also not going away is the help that is available anytime anyone needs support.

People are now also wondering what will go on with not only Halloween, but the upcoming major holidays.

Leahey has some advice on regaining a feeling of control and coping with things that are out of your control.

He also stresses the help that is available through New York State's COVID-19 Emotional Support line at 1-844-8363-9314 and by calling MHAST at (607) 771-8888.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Saturday at 6 a.m. on 98.1 The Hawk.