Meeting the Needs of Rural Communities

How to support the basic and behavioral health needs of your community during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major effect on all our lives. Adults and children alike are stressed and overwhelmed by its challenges. Many of us have felt isolated and lonely because we have been keeping our distance to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Resources are available to help community members with their stress and other personal problems they might be experiencing. As a trusted rural community leader, you can use the following resources to have honest conversations and help the members of your community get the support they need.

Support for people’s basic needs

Support for people’s behavioral health needs

For everyone

For individuals at risk for self-harm and suicide

During times of extreme stress, people may have thoughts of harming themselves and suicide. Suicide is preventable and help is available.

For families and children

For people at higher risk for serious illness

For health care workers and first responders

For other workers

  • Employees: How to Cope with Job Stress and Build Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic has information on how to recognize the symptoms of stress and how to cope.
  • #FarmStateOfMind has resources for farmworkers and their families to help with managing stress, anxiety, and depression.