Mental health expert encouraging people to take time for self-care during COVID-19 pandemic

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The coronavirus pandemic is impacting people across the country in many ways, including mental health.

Mental health experts want everyone to know there is help and people should be prioritizing mental health.

"Take some time for themselves," UWM Chair of Psychology W. Hobart Davies said. "That's one of the big mistakes I'm seeing is that people are anxious and busy all day and aren't really taking time for self-care."

Psychologists say it is important to stick to daily routines like eating and sleeping. For anyone struggling, including those on the frontlines, it is necessary to reach out for help.

In the last few weeks, many providers have switched to telehealth and phone visits to make sure people are getting the services they need.

“The behavioral health services really have pivoted, probably the biggest change we’ve ever seen in the delivery of those services ever that virtually every provider in the country switched to telehealth options in really in a period of just two or three weeks," Davies said.

If you need help, Davies said the first step is to reach out to a primary care provider.