Resources Available For Those Experiencing Emotional Health Instability

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April 6, 2020 – As communities experience the emotional weight of an unprecedented public health crisis, there are many stressors – financial burden, illness, unemployment, confinement, concern for loved ones, etc. – that may adversely affect peoples’ mental health and well-being.

General mental health guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) includes  minimizing or avoiding exposure to news that causes distress, developing daily routines, maintaining connection to people within existing social networks, engaging in healthy activities, and getting proper sleep and nutrition.  

In Clackamas County, mental health professionals and public safety officials are bracing for an increase in depression, anxiety, violence, abuse, suicidal ideation and other mental health conditions. They provide a reminder that anyone in crisis is a phone call away from help.

“We recognize that some people are struggling with unique and difficult circumstances,” said Wilsonville Police Chief Robert Wurpes. “Our officers are trained and available to help community members experiencing a crisis.”

Social distancing may provide a significant obstacle for people accustomed to regular check-ins with friends and family members. Wurpes encourages people to get creative about staying in touch.

“Whether it’s telephone, video chat or text, we encourage everyone to continue check in with the people you care about,” he said.

Clackamas County health professionals are available by phone around the clock to provide critical assistance to anyone in crisis.  A page on the Clackamas County website details some of the services available and ways to protect mental health.  To learn more, visit clackamas.us/behavioralhealth or utilize the resources listed below.

Domestic Abuse: Outbreaks and disasters frequently lead to increases in domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. If you are the victim of domestic or sexual violence, there is help available. Clackamas County's Family Justice Center is closed, but the 24/7 crisis line is staffed. Call 503-654-2288. 

  • If you are in immediate danger, or a life-threatening situation, call 911.
  • If you need law enforcement assistance, call non-emergency at 503-655-8211.
  • Protective Orders can be obtained at the Clackamas County Courthouse or through Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office Victim Assistance Program 503-655-8616.
  • National Sexual Assault 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673)
  • National Domestic Violence 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)

Anxiety & Depression: A number of resources are available to people experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation or other manifestations of mental health crisis.

  • Clackamas County Behavior Health offices are closed, but individuals in crisis may call the 24/7 crisis and support line, 503-655-8585.  Non-emergency #: 503-742-5335.  A resource guide is also available. 
  • Lines for Life's suicide lifeline is available to call at all hours for free, confidential and anonymous help. trained staff and volunteers provide immediate assistance, compassionate support, and resource referrals that can put you on a path to healing. Call 800-273-8255.
  • Oregon Youthline, 877-968-8491, or text teen2teen to 839863
  • Senior Loneliness Line, 503-200-1633, provides 24/7, free, and confidential support to older adults.
  • The Trevor Project Suicide Prevention Lifeline for LGBTQ youth, 1-866-4-U-TREVOR (1-866-488-7386)
  • Trans Lifeline's Peer Support Hotline, 877-565-8860, provides peer support service run by trans people.
  • Veterans Crisis Line, 1-800-273-8255; press #1

Child Abuse: If a child’s life is in danger, call 911. Otherwise, you can report abuse or neglect by calling local law enforcement in Wilsonville (503-655-8211), Clackamas County (971-673-7112) or using the statewide Child Abuse Hotline, 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  

  • Suspicion is enough to warrant a call; hotline screeners are trained to help guide callers through the process. Learn more about available services and resources from the Children's Center of Clackamas County
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