BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health on Thursday released 20 public service videos regarding ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The videos address the importance of maintaining mental health during the outbreak for five audiences: health professionals, parents of young children, adolescents and young adults, adults with disabilities and older adults.

The 15-, 30- and 45-second video and audio announcements, featuring Deputy Secretary Aliya Jones of MDH’s Behavioral Health Administration, are available by clicking here.

“Self-care is so important, especially when presented with great uncertainty,” said MDH Secretary Robert R. Neall. “Mental health professionals and individuals throughout Maryland look to our Behavioral Health Administration for guidance. I want to make sure we give our community every tool available to get through this crisis.”

Deputy Secretary Jones said she is encouraging providers and healthcare professionals throughout Maryland to share these messages with their communities.

“Staying at home and using social distancing from others should not mean complete isolation,” said Jones. “Reaching out to people you trust is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety and depression, and we want to spread the word that you are not alone. There are resources available for people who want help.”