For years, the e-buddy and call-in programs have helped out people with medically diagnosed mental or emotional conditions. Through this trying time, though, the organization has opened the door for everyone to find someone.
The program is simple: a person is referred to Compeer through their mental health provider, and then connected to a buddy like Coury. She says the connection is made typically through shared interests. The buddies can chat over the phone, by email, and now even by video chat.
Coury says the program is not just about lending an ear.
“It could give them a sense of self-esteem and make them more apt to create friendships with other people,” says Coury.
Compeer President Sara Passamonte says they’ve had more and more people sign up to be that ear in recent weeks. She says that at a time like this, finding friendships could be hard to come by for some people. Those feelings of isolation can really add up.
“It can really undo some of the good things in your life,” Passamonte says.
That is why she stresses the importance of talking to someone, and it’s an effort that has gained ground across the state. Last week, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced more than 6,000 mental health professionals had signed up to provide free-online services much like what Compeer is offering. The state also developed a hotline, which can be reached at 1-844-863-9314.
It’s a development that Passamonte says could have a major impact on the mental well-being of both the people calling in and even their buddies.
“I think it’s actually going to be a life saver for some people,” Passamonte says. “To have this live connection, and say 'hey I’m here, I may not be in my normal environment on a workday, or what I’m used to doing, but here I am.'”
While just how long the current situation may last is unclear, Coury says volunteers like herself will stay dedicated to their buddies. It’s an effort she says will outlast any pandemic.
“We’re kind of in this together,” she says.
If you would like to use Compeer’s services, it’s encouraged you reach out to your mental health care provider. If you do not have one, you can call Compeer at (585)-546-8280.
You can also visit their website.
If you want to sign up to be a buddy, Compeer has a volunteer page. You will be required to go through a background check and training. Coury says once the ban on gatherings ends, buddies will be able to meet in-person with their connections.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has also set up a COVID-19 page for reference.
A reminder, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255.
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Local mental health service aims to bring people together during distancing - WHEC
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