BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – As the clean-up gets underway officials are reminding people to keep mental health top of mind.
The Vermont Department of Mental Health says that disasters like this flooding can take a toll on people’s collective well-being and that experiencing another flood after last year can be retraumatizing.
Starting Over Strong Vermont: helps individuals and communities recover from disasters through community outreach and access to mental health services. Call Vermont 2-1-1 to be connected to outreach workers and resources in your area.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate support from trained crisis counselors who can offer emotional support and connect you with local resources.
The Vermont Language Justice Project (VLJP): VLJP has compiled a ‘Coping with Stress After a Disaster’ playlist, offering videos in 19 languages discussing common emotional responses and strategies for navigating mental health challenges post-disaster.
Mobile Crisis Services: Vermont mobile crisis teams are available to provide in-person support and crisis intervention. They can be reached through your local community mental health centers or by dialing 988.
The SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH): Call or text 1–800–985–5990 for free, confidential crisis counseling available 24/7, on all days of the year.