Help for your head available free in Michigan

Headspace app offers meditation methods to combat stress, anxiety

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THURSDAY, April 23 — Coping with a loss, like a job, often requires more help than well-meaning friends or family can provide.

The more than 1.2 million Michiganders forced out of work by the coronavirus can now lean on the Stay Home, Stay Mindful website — as can all residents, jobless or not. The site is hosted by Headspace, a global leader in mindfulness and meditation, and sponsored in part by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

In a press release, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the site is a free mental health resource for Michiganders to access during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The site, at www.headspace.com/MI, features a collection of science-backed, evidence-based guided meditations, at-home workouts and other content which addresses stress and anxiety. An internet connection is all that’s needed to access the website.

“Michiganders have faced an unprecedented crisis over the past month, and in these uncertain times having access to mental health resources is crucial,” Whitmer said.

“That is why I am proud to partner with Headspace, I know this science-based resource will be valuable during this challenging time. This virus has taken a toll on Michiganders’ physical and mental health. While we all stay home and stay safe, it is so important to take the time to check in and take care of yourself. Michiganders are tough, but having access to tools like this one will help us all get through this together.”

Headspace has been shown in studies to make numerous positive impacts, including reduced stress, increased compassion and decreased aggression. “We want to be there for the people of Michigan and do our small part in helping them cope with rising levels of stress and anxiety during this public health crisis,” said Headspace co-founder and CEO Rich Pierson. “That’s why we're humbled to partner with Governor Whitmer on increasing access to mental health resources for folks across the state.”  

The state has taken numerous steps to provide mental health resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the recently launched “warmline” that connects Michiganders living with persistent mental health conditions to certified peer support specialists.  The warmline operates 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., seven days a week at 888-PEER-753 (888-733-7753).

The latest information around this outbreak is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

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