Mental health is a tough issue during the best of times, but the additional stress and trauma of living through a pandemic can present new issues and exacerbate existing ones. This week, Ranga Krishnan, professor of psychiatry and the CEO of Rush University System for Health, discusses why attention to mental health is crucial now, and always.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, resources are available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is toll free and available 24/7. That number is (800) 275-8255. If you’re in a domestic abuse situation, you can receive confidential support from the National Domestic Violence Hotline, also toll free and available 24/7. Their number is (800) 799-SAFE (7233).