stress banner

Feeling overwhelmed? Can’t sleep or concentrate? You might be dealing with toxic stress.

The COVID-19 health and economic crisis has made toxic stress a rising problem for many nationwide. Few people realize that resources are available to lessen the effects of stress and help promote health and well-being despite the difficulties unfolding during this pandemic.

United Ways of California has launched a text-based campaign dedicated to educating the public about the effects of stress and to provide help in various ways including providing stress-busting tips, information on general resources for financial stressors, and clinically-proven mental health support resources through our chatbot Gloria. To get started text "stress" to 211211.*

*When texting “stress” to 211211 you will be asked for your zip code and then for information about your primary source(s) of stress. Message and data rates apply. Message rates will vary. At any time, text “stop” to opt-out. For more information about how your data will be used, please read our privacy policy and SMS policy.

Managing Stress

Digital Stress Management Resources

Bereavement and Grief

Statewide Financial Assistance

  • Benefit Kitchen can screen you to see if you’re eligible for 18 state, federal, and local resources.

  • MyFreeTaxes.org provides information in cash-back credits such as CalEITC, and can help connect you with free tax prep assistance.

  • See if you qualify for Low-Cost Internet Service in your area.

  • Food assistance can be found via a local CA Food Bank or through GetCalFresh.org

Parenting & Caregiving

* 211-211 is a texting system administered and operated by United Ways of California. This campaign is not a crisis response system and anyone in danger should call 9-1-1 or text HOME to 741-741 to reach the Crisis Text Line. 

This campaign is made possible through the generous support of a private donor. If you would like to donate please give here.

2-1-1 is a free and confidential service that helps people across
North America find the local resources they need. We’re here for you
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.