It is common to experience feelings of anxiety, depression or stress in the face of a rapidly changing situation such as a health pandemic, according to Sonja Gains, the deputy executive commissioner for intellectual and developmental disability and behavioral health services for Texas Health and Human Services.

Texans experiencing anxiety, stress or other emotional challenges in light of the COVID-19 pandemic will now be able to utilize a 24-hour mental health support line.

Texas Health and Human Services announced in a press release March 31 the statewide COVID-19 support line will be available seven days a week and toll free at 833-986-1919.

The service, operated by Houston’s Harris Center for Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, will offer trauma-informed support and psychological first aid. All counseling services are completely confidential and without charge.

“It is important to recognize how our mental health can be affected by the pandemic,” said state Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, in the press release. “The mental health support line for COVID-19 will go a long way to ensure Texans who are struggling with anxiety, depression or other mental health issues can access the care they need.”