FORT MYERS, Fla. — It hasn't been an easy few weeks for Southwest Florida. Back-to-back major hurricanes and tornadoes have left many people struggling to carry on daily life, and it can take a toll on your mental health.
FEMA released a list of resources available to Floridians in need of support.
SAMSHA Distress Helpline
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a Disaster Distress helpline that provides counseling and support to survivors experiencing emotional distress. You can call 800-985-5990, visit samhsa.gov, or text TalkWithUs for English or Hablamos for Spanish to 66746. This service is available 24/7.
Mental Health Warmline
- If you're in crisis or just need someone to talk to, you can call this warmline. FEMA says you'll be connected to a trained peer who has been through their own mental health struggles. This free, confidential service is available from 4 - 10 p.m. ET every night. The number is 800-945-1355.
Other Coping Resources
- Crisis Text Line: Free, 24/7 texting service for mental health support and crisis intervention. Text HOME to 741741 or visit crisistextline.org.
- United Way's 211 Network: Provides multiple resources, including mental wellness care. Call 2-1-1, available 24/7, or visit 211.org.
- American Red Cross Virtual Family Assistance Center: Call 833-492-0094.
- Florida Department of Children and Families Abuse Hotline: Call 800-962-2873.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.
- National Sexual Assault Helpline: Call 800-656-HOPE.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: This provides free, confidential support to people experiencing mental-health-related distress. Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.
