Resources for Mental and Emotional Support

Feeling worn out, alone, or depressed? You are not alone. After 2 years of pandemic conditions, feelings like these are very common. Whether you are experiencing mild uneasiness or deeply troubling thoughts, thankfully, there is help.

United Counseling Service
For people in Bennington County, there’s United Counseling Service. You can call them any time, even if you are not sure what kind of help you need. Their number is 802-442-5491. Visit https://vermontcarepartners.org/agencies/ for a Vermont mental health agency near you.

COVID Support VT
Confidential, free support is available Monday – Friday by calling 2-1-1 and choosing option #2. You can call about circumstances that relate to COVID or anything else. Visit https://covidsupportvt.org/ for workshops that can help you set goals and address common stressors. 

School Support
School counselors are a great resource for children, teens, and college students. They can help address mild issues and connect you with help outside of school.

Domestic Violence Organizations
Locally, the Project Against Violent Encounters (PAVE) offers help to those experiencing violence in their homes. The organization’s supportive and knowledgeable volunteers offer help with anything that the survivor of domestic violence may need, from legal support to housing, 24/7. Call 802-442-2111. For help outside the local area, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or text “START” to 88788.

Your Primary Care Provider
Call your primary care provider for help. They can help arrange for you to see a counselor, often conveniently in the office.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline
This helpline is available 24/7/365. It’s free, confidential, and available in English and Spanish. The line offers information for getting help wherever you live.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Specifically for people who are having thoughts of suicide or as a support for loved ones, the line provides immediate direct access to help 24 hours a day in English and Spanish. Call 800-273-8255.

I urge you to reach out and share how you're feeling. Often talking about what is happening in your life is enough to provide the clarity you need to move through the troubles to a much more enjoyable time.

Nancy Iserman, MSW, is a social worker at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, part of Southwestern Vermont Health Care, in Bennington.