Colorado Politics

Romanoff sets virtual town hall to grapple with mental health concerns

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Andrew Romanoff has announced plans to hold a virtual town hall on Wednesday devoted to anxiety and other mental health issues surrounding the coronavirus outbreak.

“The pandemic we now face has taught us a lot about the coronavirus, COVID-19 and how to protect our physical health. But this crisis takes a toll on our mental health as well,” said Romanoff, a former state House speaker who headed Mental Health Colorado for four years before throwing his hat in the ring for Republican U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner’s seat.

The virtual town hall will take place at noon Wednesday on a variety of the Romanoff campaign’s social media platforms – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Said Romanoff: “Mental health professionals will be on hand to answer your questions about how to handle anxiety, address your children’s concerns and improve your wellbeing.”

In the meantime, he noted, anyone struggling with mental health issues can call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255 for free, confidential counseling available in English and Spanish around the clock.

Romanoff lauded advice offered by Vincent Atchity, his successor helming the statewide advocacy organization.

“Some anxiety is normal, especially in times like these,” Atchity said. “But we need to be careful not to let our anxiety get the better of us. Our anxiety has an influence on everyone around us, especially children. Use conversations with your children as an opportunity to convey facts and set an emotional tone.”

Among Atchity’s suggestions: Keep busy and stay engaged in daily activities, do what you can to assist someone who is alone and don’t hesitate to seek out support.

“So, remember to breathe. Focus on what you can control. Take the recommended steps from public health officials. And don’t miss this chance to practice active kindness to all,” Atchity said.

A school sign shows a message as the coronavirus pandemic sweeps over Colorado and the country outside Littleton High School Sunday, March 15, 2020, in Littleton, Colo.
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Tags

PREV

PREVIOUS

RTD limits Union Station waits to 10 minutes amid coronavirus concerns

The Regional Transportation District, citing a desire to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 coronavirus, will limit loitering in Denver Union Station’s bus concourse to 10 minutes. “Patrons inside the RTD Bus Concourse at Union Station should board the first available bus to their destination,” the agency announced. RTD said that the change is “in […]

NEXT

NEXT UP

State revenue forecasts show $800M less coming in; state budget will have to be frozen for 2020-21

“The rug got pulled out from under us.” That’s the reaction from state Sen. Dominick Moreno, D-Commerce City, and other members of the Joint Budget Committee to the news that they have no extra money and could be in the hole for the 2020-21 budget that’s due to come out on March 30. The March […]


Welcome Back.

Streak: 9 days i

Stories you've missed since your last login:

Stories you've saved for later:

Recommended stories based on your interests:

Edit my interests