Americans' mental and emotional health can't be ignored in the fight against COVID-19.Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz, assistant secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services for mental health and substance use, joins the show to explain the physiological effects of extended isolation.  McCance-Katz is both an epidemiologist and a psychiatrist. That enables her to have a uniquely holistic perspective about the most effective way to protect the whole health of Americans during the pandemic. If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, check out these resources:SAMHSA’s National HelplineMental Health First Aid We also read your letters to the editor and share the words of President Ronald Reagan on July 4, 1986, as he reminded Americans of where we came from and the importance of unity to maintain our national strength.  Enjoy the show! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.