Harris County Public Health Urges Mental Health Awareness and Support Following Hurricane Beryl
In the wake of Hurricane Beryl's recent devastating effects on the Greater Houston Area, the disaster's impacts are not limited just to physical and material loss but extend to a more critical area - our mental health. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) advises residents that people often experience considerable stress following a disaster, such as Hurricane Beryl.
According to HCPH, it's normal for emotions to change before, during, and after a disaster, with symptoms like anxiety and depression potentially developing if left untreated. It's crucial to recognize and address these symptoms, which can include grief, angry outbursts, difficulty sleeping, feelings of hopelessness, and even physical symptoms like headaches and body pains. If neglected, these feelings can give rise to severe conditions like substance abuse, domestic violence, and suicidal behaviors.
While feelings like worry or anxiety about the future and loneliness in disrupted routines can be overwhelming, Harris County Public Health provides resources for coping and healing. HCPC further indicates that, as a result of a natural disaster, it is also normal to experience happiness as you stand together with your community, anger or sadness during anniversaries or events that remind you of the disaster, or even guilt because you did not experience the same thing as others.
To navigate the many feelings and effects that come with such events, HCPC stresses the importance of avoiding self-isolation and seeking professional help. A variety of support services are available to Harris County residents, such as:
- The Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD's 24-hour crisis line at 713-970-7000.
- The National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 or online at 988lifeline.org.
- The Disaster Distress Hotline at 800-985-5990 or via text at 741741.
Residents can also reach the 211 Texas/United Way Helpline by dialing 2-1-1 and ask for a referral to non-profit counseling services or log on to UnitedWayHouston.org for more information. Additionally, Houston area residents can call 832-416-1177 for support from the Crisis Intervention of Houston, a nonprofit organization that provides free, confidential crisis and suicide prevention counseling, survivor support groups, and educational resources exclusively to Houston and Harris County residents.
Speaking to a primary care physician or healthcare provider is also encouraged. If employed with benefits, residents may be eligible for an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that pays for short-term confidential counseling.
Harris County Public Health reminds everyone that mental health effects from a disaster can impact anyone. It's crucial to recognize these feelings, connect with others, and seek professional help when needed. Together as a community, we can recover and rebuild from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
