DAVIE, Fla. Over the past several weeks, calls to the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention have steadily increased. Many mental health experts are concerned about the potential for an increase in suicides, as well as crippling anxiety and depression, brought on by the stress of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that people during times of stress may turn to illicit substances as a way of numbing or escaping reality, especially those with underlying mental health issues. We must make people realize that mental health is jut physical health of the brain and project to the community that its OK to ask for help that help is out there, she said. Resources available 24/7: The Florida Initiative For Suicide Prevention by dialing 954-364-0344 or the National Suicide Hotline by dialing 800-273-8255.