Your Life Iowa and COVID-19

Everyone needs help sometimes.  That is the tagline for Your Life Iowa (YLI) and now more than ever during this time of uncertainty and isolation from friends and family, it is good to know that YLI is there, with support and helpful information about alcohol, drugs, gambling, mental health and suicidal thoughts.   

YLI is a trusted source of information on alcohol, drugs, gambling, mental health, and suicidal thoughts, and to assist those seeking information on COVID-19 there is a link right on the homepage (yourlifeiowa.org) to Iowa’s information and response to COVID-19 (https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/).

Here are a couple of things to remember that all of us at Your Life Iowa want you to practice.  Stay healthy - prioritize sleep, making a commitment to getting 8 hours nightly.  Get some exercise, whether in your home or outside.  Be sure to practice social distancing. Take deep breaths, stretch, meditate.  Control what you can - wash your hands, practice social distancing, stay home when ill.  While the fear of the unknown can be unsettling, taking control can help you feel empowered and counteract the stress being felt.

When stress, anxiety, and fear are affecting your ability to function in some part of your life, it is time to reach out.  Are you losing sleep or are you fearful of becoming sick?  Reach out to your healthcare provider and discuss your concerns.  If you or a loved one are concerned about what might be going on regarding the use of alcohol or drugs, problem gambling, or concerns about mental health or suicidal thoughts, YLI is a trusted source for help.  24/7, every day, YLI is available via text (855-895-8398), chat (yourlifeiowa.org), or phone (855-581-8111).

Asking for help can be hard, and YLI wants to make it as easy as possible to get the help being sought.   So we created a What to Expect When You Call animation.  The link for the small version is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJJUpYTZ7uA&feature=youtu.be .  The link for the larger version is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNwODg1jse8&feature=youtu.be.   YLI provides everyday life support.  No judgment.  Just helping.

For more information on Your Life Iowa please send inquires to eric.preuss@idph.iowa.gov.