Disaster helpline available for people affected by recent tornadoes

Natural disasters such as the tornadoes that hit Ohio can be overwhelming and can affect emotional health.

The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, provides immediate crisis counseling to anyone affected and/or seeking help in coping with mental or emotional affects. It’s available 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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Helpline specialists are trained to assist callers with a range of symptoms.

“People who have been through a traumatic event can experience anxiety, worry or insomnia,” said Elinore F. McCance-Katz, MD, PhD, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use. “People seeking emotional help in the aftermath of a disaster can now call 1-800-985-5990 or can text TalkWithUs to 66746 and can begin the process of recovery.”

For more information, visit http://disasterdistress.samhsa.gov/.

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