There’s no doubt about it: The COVID-19 pandemic has a lot of people on edge. It’s an uncertain time, causing stress, anxiety and fear. Fortunately, there are organizations ready to assist Nebraskans and ease some of those concerns.

“There are resources out there for you, so please do not hesitate to use them,” said Douglas County Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson. “We do not want people to panic. We want people to take this seriously and take care of their whole selves.”

Help is offered by the following:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Talk with a counselor, a doctor,  a clergy member or an interpreter.

Call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746.

Boys Town National Hotline:  The hotline staffed by specially trained Boys Town counselors.

Call 1-800-448-3000 or email them, if speech- or hearing-impaired, at hotline@boystown.org.

Nebraska Family Helpline: A great resource for families concerned about a youth experiencing mental or behavioral health issues. 

Call 1-888-866-8660.