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Disaster Behavioral Health

Contact: Florida Health

Upset woman in a counseling sessionBelow are key resources for disaster preparedness and response, offering immediate behavioral health support, long-term mental health care, and specialized assistance for various groups, including children, veterans, and seniors. These services ensure that individuals affected by emergencies or crises can access the care they need, providing essential support in times of disaster.

Whether you're navigating an immediate crisis or seeking ongoing recovery, these links offer valuable resources for mental health assistance, treatment, and support. Explore the categorized list below to find the help you need during and after a disaster.


Crisis Support Services for Immediate Help

These services provide 24/7 confidential support for individuals experiencing emergencies, disasters, or related mental health crises, offering immediate assistance and connections to long-term recovery resources.

  • 988 Crisis Lifeline
  • Crisis Text Line
  • Veterans Crisis Line
  • Disaster Distress Helpline

Immediate Support for Mental Health Crises

A confidential, 24/7 helpline offering immediate support for those experiencing mental health crises, emotional distress, or urgent needs. This service connects individuals with trained counselors to aid during difficult times.

24/7 Support for Mental Health via Text

A 24/7 text-based service offering free, confidential support during crises. By texting HOME to 741741, individuals can connect with trained Crisis Counselors who provide emotional support and guidance, helping users navigate through moments of distress. This resource is ideal for those seeking immediate assistance in a non-verbal format.

Confidential Support for Veterans in Need

A 24/7 confidential service providing immediate support for veterans, service members, and their families in crisis. Whether through phone, text, or online chat, this resource offers guidance and help during moments of emotional distress, focusing on the unique challenges faced by those who have served in the military.

Support for Crisis Recovery

This free, confidential helpline provides immediate counseling and support for individuals experiencing mental health or emotional distress due to disasters. Operated by SAMHSA, it connects people with trained counselors to help manage stress, anxiety, and trauma related to disaster events.

The above resources ensure quick access to help during emergencies or disasters, providing critical guidance and support through phone, text, or helplines.


Support for Children, Youth, and Families

Emergency response person holding an infantSupporting the emotional well-being of children, teens, and families is essential, especially during times of crisis. These resources provide specialized help for trauma, abuse, and emotional distress, along with guidance for caregivers to navigate challenging situations and foster resilience.

  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
  • Florida Department of Health Human Trafficking Resources
  • Child Welfare Information Gateway
  • National Runaway Safeline
  • National Child Abuse Hotline

Trauma resources for children and families

Provides comprehensive resources for helping children, youth, and families affected by trauma, including those impacted by disasters and emergencies. NCTSN offers evidence-based practices and supports caregivers, educators, and communities in managing the emotional effects of trauma to foster recovery and resilience.

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Child and Adolescent Mental Health Support

This resource provides information and tools to combat human trafficking in Florida. It includes training for healthcare professionals, public awareness materials, and guidance on identifying and assisting victims. By addressing prevention, intervention, and recovery, it supports the fight against human trafficking and promotes community well-being. Visit the site for vital resources to help combat this critical issue.

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Resources for Child Welfare and Family Support

Resources for Child Welfare and Family Support - This resource provides vital information and tools for supporting the behavioral health and well-being of children, youth, and families, especially during times of crisis. It focuses on child welfare systems, offering resources for professionals, caregivers, and families to enhance support and care for children facing trauma or emotional distress. Visit this site for practical guidance and resources to strengthen child protection and mental health services.

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24/7 Confidential Crisis Support for Youth

Provides confidential, 24/7 crisis intervention for youth experiencing homelessness, abuse, or family conflict. This service helps connect young people with safe shelter options, resources, and support to ensure their immediate safety and long-term well-being. Reach out for guidance or assistance via phone, text, or online chat

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24/7 Confidential Child Abuse Support Helpline

Provides confidential, 24/7 support for individuals dealing with child abuse or maltreatment. This helpline connects users to trained professionals who offer crisis intervention, guidance, and resources in over 170 languages to ensure safety and well-being for children and families.

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These services empower families with tools for recovery, resilience, and healing, providing immediate help and long-term support during challenging times.


Man and woman outside doing yogaSupport for Older Adults and Caregivers

Supporting the mental health of seniors and caregivers during crises is crucial. These resources help manage stress, access care, and navigate conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia.

  • Eldercare Locator
  • Family Caregiver Alliance
  • Disaster Preparedness for Older Adults
  • Supporting Older Adults After Disasters

Resources for Older Adults and Caregivers

This service helps older adults, caregivers, and families find local resources, including support for behavioral health, aging services, and caregiver assistance. By connecting individuals to trusted agencies and services, it ensures access to the care and resources needed for improving well-being, especially in times of crisis.

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Support for Caregivers Managing Complex Challenges

Provides a wide range of resources and support for caregivers, with a focus on behavioral health and strategies for managing the emotional and physical demands of caregiving. This organization offers valuable information, crisis intervention tools, and guidance to help caregivers navigate challenges, especially for those caring for older adults with complex needs.

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Emergency Preparedness Guidance for Older Adults.

This resource from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs provides essential guidance for older adults and their caregivers on how to prepare for emergencies. It includes tips on creating disaster plans, assembling emergency kits, and ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults during crises. The information is tailored to address the specific health and wellness needs of seniors, helping them stay resilient in the face of disasters.

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The Impact of Disaster on Older Adults

This resource from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides guidance for addressing the unique mental health needs of older adults affected by disasters. It offers insights into trauma, PTSD, and stress management, equipping professionals and caregivers with tools to support emotional recovery and resilience in seniors after a crisis.

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The resources above support seniors and caregivers in managing stress, preparing for emergencies, and building resilience.


Mental Health Resources for Long-Term Support

Group counseling sessionManaging mental health requires consistent care and access to the right resources. These organizations provide valuable tools, support groups, and personalized strategies to promote resilience and lasting well-being. Whether you're navigating daily challenges or recovering from a crisis, they offer guidance to help maintain emotional and mental health over time, ensuring individuals feel supported at every step of their journey.

  • SAMHSA National Helpline
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
  • CDC Mental Health Resources
  • Ready.gov Coping with Disaster

24/7 Helpline for Mental Health Support

This 24/7 confidential helpline offers free, professional support for individuals and families struggling with mental health or substance use challenges. It connects callers to local treatment and recovery resources, ensuring access to ongoing care and long-term support. Whether for crisis intervention or long-term assistance, SAMHSA helps individuals navigate their path to recovery.

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Support for Mental Health Challenges

The NAMI Helpline offers free, confidential support, providing information and resources to individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. It connects users with local services, peer support, and guidance for navigating mental health challenges, making it a valuable resource for long-term mental health care.

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Mental Health Resources and Guidance

This comprehensive resource from the CDC provides valuable information on mental health topics, including coping strategies, stress management, and promoting emotional well-being. It offers guidance for individuals, families, and communities to address mental health challenges, especially during emergencies or times of stress.

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Managing Emotional Well-Being During Disasters

Offers strategies for individuals and families to manage stress and emotional well-being before, during, and after a disaster. It highlights the importance of staying connected with loved ones, maintaining routines, and seeking support from community resources. The page also emphasizes the need for self-care and recognizing when professional help may be necessary to cope with disaster-related emotional challenges.

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Long-term mental health support aids recovery and resilience after crises. These resources offer treatment locators, coping tips, and peer support to help individuals and families. Explore the links to learn more.


Upset man in a counseling sessionAdditional Support Resources

From mental health support to services for individuals with disabilities, these resources provide essential assistance during disaster recovery and preparedness. Explore the links below for services to help rebuild resilience and ensure readiness.

  • 211.org Mental Health Support
  • Hope for Healing Florida
  • Teen Line
  • My Florida My Family
  • Bright Expectations

24/7 Support for Health, Housing, and Crises

Connects individuals to vital mental health services, including crisis intervention, counseling, and support for emotional well-being. Available 24/7, this resource helps individuals find local programs and assistance to manage stress, navigate challenges, and improve mental health..

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Florida Mental Health and Recovery Support

A resource offering mental health support, recovery guidance, and access to local services for Florida residents, particularly in the aftermath of traumatic events and crises. Provides resources to support emotional well-being and resilience.

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Confidential Peer Support for Teens in Crisis

Offers support, resources, and hope to young people through a confidential hotline staffed by trained teen counselors. Additionally, its outreach programs aim to normalize mental health conversations and reduce stigma, empowering teens to seek the help they need.

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Comprehensive Services for Florida Department of Children and Families

A state-run resource offering comprehensive services to Florida families, including mental health support, wellness programs, and tools for managing daily challenges. This network connects individuals with local resources, ensuring families have access to the services they need for overall well-being and recovery.

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Support for Disabilities, Wellness, and Families.

A Florida program offering resources and support to individuals with disabilities, focusing on wellness, mental health, and personal development to help enhance quality of life. This site provides valuable information and guidance for families and caregivers in need of assistance.

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These services provide critical support during crises, including mental health help, recovery programs, and assistance for individuals with disabilities. Explore the links for immediate and long-term care.


Woman being consoled by another womanBehavioral health is a vital part of disaster preparedness and recovery, providing support for those affected by crises. The services in this directory offer immediate crisis intervention and ongoing care to help manage trauma, stress, and emotional challenges. These resources prioritize mental wellness at every stage of recovery, from initial counseling to long-term care.

Whether facing the aftermath of a disaster or working toward recovery, these organizations provide essential support to rebuild emotional resilience. By connecting individuals and communities with key mental health resources, this directory helps restore stability and well-being, ensuring no one navigates the journey alone.


Note: The links and content provided on this page are for your convenience and informational purposes. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) doesn't endorse or approve any products, services, or opinions. We're not responsible for the content or accuracy of external sites. If you have questions, please reach out to the external site directly.