Handling Stress after a Disaster or Traumatic Incident

Dear Neighbors,

Every month we provide tips on how to prepare for emergencies and disasters. This month, we offer resources for individuals and families to help manage stress in the aftermath of the mass shooting at the Gilroy Garlic Festival and subsequent incidents in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio.

After a major traumatic event, it is important to take care of yourself and your family. A traumatic event can have a major impact on health and well-being, even if you or a family member were not directly affected. Below are some resources that might be helpful:

1. If you were involved in a disaster, terrorism, or a traumatic event like a car crash, you may be affected personally regardless of whether you were hurt or lost a loved one. It is common to show signs of stress after exposure to a disaster or other traumatic event, and it is important to monitor your physical and emotional health. For more information on how to manage stress and Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event – visit:

2. The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. For more details: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline

We hope these resources will provide a means of emotional support and help restore and maintain a sense of safety and well-being for you and your family.

Sincerely,

Office of Emergency Management