Crisis Counseling Hotline Open for Texas Hurricane Victims
Release Date: October 4, 2005
Release Number: 1606-017
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AUSTIN, Texas -- Immediate crisis counseling services are now available for Texas hurricane victims, funded by a grant from the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Office of Disaster Mental Health Services (DMHS).
"Losing a home, business or personal property to disaster takes a financial toll on people," said Tom Davies, federal coordinating officer. "But the emotional toll a disaster exacts can be devastating, too. A victim's emotional recovery also needs to be addressed."
Crisis counseling can be given through home visits or face-to-face at various locations. Crisis counselors are also present, or may be reached at many of the FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers. The counselors offer assistance with issues such as mental well being, stress reduction and depression related to the major hurricanes.
For mental health assistance, call the Crisis Counseling Hotline at 1-866-773-4243.
"People affected by a disaster can be seriously stressed and confused by the sudden adversity in their world," said Daniel Thompson, disaster mental health coordinator of the office of DMHS. "We try to keep them from being overwhelmed and counsel them on coping skills. No one who experiences a disaster goes untouched by it."
DSHS is responsible for overall administration and implementation of the program, called Immediate Services Crisis Counseling Program. Crisis counseling, community education services, assistance and training are being provided through behavioral health partners throughout Texas.
Common reactions to a disaster may include: nightmares, difficulty sleeping, feelings of being overwhelmed, fear of the weather, anxiety about the future, difficulty making decisions, hopelessness, disappointment with outside help, headaches, increased anger or aggression, domestic violence, frustration, and feelings of powerlessness. These feelings can be exhibited by people of all ages, especially children.
Mental health experts suggest a number of ways to relieve the symptoms of emotional distress caused by a traumatic event:
- Talk over your disaster experiences with others. Give everyone a chance to let off steam. Show your kids it is okay to grieve.
- Talk with your kids about what each of you might do to handle future disasters.
- Take a break. No matter how much work there is to do, make some time for you and your family to play. Get some exercise.
- Relax your expectations of both yourself and others for a while.
- Maintain regular routines, including a healthy diet and plenty of sleep. Make bedtime a special moment of calm and comfort for young children.
- Clarify feelings with your partner. Women often put others first, and neglect themselves; men often "tough it out," and bottle up their feelings. Be sensitive to your partner's needs.
- Do not rely on alcohol or drugs to help you cope. This is a vulnerable time, when bad habits can sink deep roots into your life.
- Hug and laugh.
- Take note of, and take pride in, the things you get done each day.
If depression, anxiety or other problems continue for either adults or children, or you have questions about your own or your children's reactions, contact your local county mental health office or call the Crisis Counseling Hotline at 1-866-773-4243.
Disaster recovery officials urge those who sustained damages or incurred losses from the hurricanes to apply for disaster assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech or hearing impairment can call a special TTY number at 1-800-462-7585. Both lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice. Applicants can also register online at www.fema.gov.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 04-Oct-2005 15:08:02