Free crisis counseling services are available to residents in 34 Texas counties in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. Disaster-related crisis counseling services are funded by FEMA and administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
In a related news item, the Associated Press reports that crisis counseling helps people understand that their emotional reactions to trauma are normal and helps them to develop coping techniques. “Stress is a normal reaction to an abnormal event like the hurricane,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Sandy Coachman. “Everyone recovers in their own way and at their own pace, but talking to someone may help.”
State and federal recovery officials recommend that people:
- take care of themselves physically,
- share their feelings with others,
- get enough sleep,
- eat properly,
- recognize their limits,
- prioritize their time and
- get involved with family and friends.
Original Source: www.sanmarcosrecord.com/local/local_story_306154732.html