Empower Your Mental Health: NCDHHS Launches Comprehensive Disaster Support Toolkit
Natural disasters and incidents of mass violence continue to impact individuals, families, and communities. NCDHHS has introduced a new, multilingual Disaster and Behavioral Health Resources Communications Toolkit to equip communities with essential tips, guidance, and resources to nurture mental and emotional well-being before, during, and after a disaster.
Supporting Mental Health Through Disasters
North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary, Kody H. Kinsley, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the diverse emotions experienced post-disaster. The launch of the multilingual toolkit aims to ensure every North Carolinian has access to essential tools and assistance in coping healthily and seeking help when needed.
A Comprehensive Toolkit for Every Need
The Disaster and Behavioral Health Resources Communications Toolkit features disaster-specific resources tailored to the requirements of North Carolinians. It includes fact sheets, social media content, and videos guiding individuals on finding mental health resources locally, online, or via phone. Additionally, it helps individuals navigate stressful situations while managing disabilities or caregiving responsibilities, access care for substance use issues, and provides safety advice, among other valuable resources. The materials are available in several languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic, ensuring a wider reach and support base.
Empowering Communities for Disaster Resilience
June marks the onset of hurricane season in North Carolina. Kelly Crosbie, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, emphasizes the importance of the toolkit in aiding North Carolinians to stay connected, manage their mental health effectively, and access care during crises.
Utilizing the Toolkit
The toolkit serves as a crucial resource for educators, healthcare providers, caregivers, first responders, crisis response experts, and disaster volunteers, enabling them to tap into behavioral health resources and support systems during emergencies or natural disasters.
Preparing for the Unexpected
NCDHHS urges individuals to save and share information from the toolkit for personal disaster readiness and recovery purposes. The materials encompass general disaster preparedness tips and crucial mental health services like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and the Disaster Distress Helpline. By distributing the toolkit among family, friends, and colleagues, individuals can collectively work towards disaster resilience.
Building Resilience for Tomorrow
While disasters can strike unexpectedly, taking proactive steps now can alleviate stress, fortify mental health, and empower communities to navigate disaster aftermath successfully. Visit ReadyNC.gov for more information and participate in spreading awareness about the Disaster and Behavioral Health Resources Communications Toolkit.