The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that 43 to 48 percent of the nation’s youth, ages 16 to 24, admitted to having symptoms of depression and anxiety. COVID Recovery Iowa’s goal is to reduce that number and they have partnered with American Idol winner, Maddie Poppe, and the iconic Iowa Cubs mascot, Cubbie Bear, to help spread the message that help is available. Poppe and Cubbie Bear appear in a special informational video that is being distributed to 300 youth programs across the state. “COVID Recovery Iowa continues to provide emotional support to youth and their families through virtual support groups, story hours, self-care programming and many positive activities on a variety of social media platforms,” says Child and Family Team Leader, Mandy Gesme. “We are here to help all Iowans as we recover and begin to figure out how best to reconnect with people and activities that impact our well-being. We want to help youth decrease their anxiety in part by encouraging them to be kind and patient with themselves and others as we navigate how to move forward.” A link to the new video can be found included below. However, COVID Recovery Iowa is not just here to support the youth of the state, they are here for all Iowans who have been impacted in any way by the COVID-19 pandemic or the August Derecho. They offer support groups, activities, resources, free confidential virtual counseling and emotional support to all Iowans. Details on how to get connected or for more information can also be found here.
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Linke to Maddie Poppe and Cubbie Bear video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wktOL03IKwQ
More information:
- Iowa Concern Line: 800-447-1985 or 844-775-WARM (9276) ask to be connected to a COVID Recovery Iowa counselor
- COVIDrecoveryiowa.org then fill out a contact form
- COVID Recovery Iowa is also on Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, Twitter and YouTube