Today, Governor Evers and DHS Secretary-designee Andrea Palm announced the Resilient Wisconsin initiative. With the stressors and health challenges inherent in the COVID-19 pandemic, the time is now to provide Wisconsinites with tools to build resiliency for those affected by trauma, toxic stress, and other mental and behavioral health challenges.
Finding healthy ways to cope and stay connected is more important than ever This is what Resilient Wisconsin offers – tools to encourage self-care, maintain social connections, and reduce stress. When we utilize these tools, we help build a healthier Wisconsin for all. Here are a few steps you can take today.
- Get the three goods. That’s good-for-you foods, a good night’s sleep, and a good amount of exercise every day.
- Stay connected to your support system. Reach out to family and friends, colleagues, and community groups in whatever way you can—calls, texts, video chats, and more.
- Spend time away from focusing on COVID-19. Don’t let the pandemic take over what you read, watch, or talk about. And don’t be afraid to ask friends and family to talk about something else.
Reduce anxiety by reducing your risk. Stay safer at home. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Stay at least 6 feet apart while running essential errands at the store, pharmacy, or gas station. Knowing you’re doing everything you can to stay healthy can help you worry less. - Check in with yourself. Everyone’s reaction to stress is different. Difficulty concentrating or sleeping, irritability, fatigue, and even stomachaches can be normal. But if you find you are overwhelmed or having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, reach out for help right away. Text HOPELINE to 741741 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
We are in a stressful time for Wisconsin, and we recognize that stress is heightened for our first responders and medical professionals on the frontlines, parents and caregivers, people living with mental and behavioral health concerns, and mental and behavioral health providers. This is why Resilient Wisconsin also provides tools, resources, and trauma-informed practices specific to these communities.
Staying Safer at Home is important, but we know it is not easy. Resilient Wisconsin offers us a way forward as we all work towards a healthier Wisconsin. For more information, please visit resilient.wisconsin.gov. and follow DHS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Remember, it is OK to ask for help, and it builds resilience to reach out and connect. Together, and with Resilient Wisconsin, we will find ways to stay strong and support each other. We are committed to building a healthier and more resilient Wisconsin.
