State and FEMA Offer Free Crisis Counseling to Survivors of Tropical Storm Helene

Natural disasters don’t just cause physical destruction—they also leave lasting emotional scars. For many survivors of Tropical Storm Helene, the impact goes beyond the loss of homes, property, and infrastructure. The emotional and psychological toll can be overwhelming, causing stress, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future.

Recognizing this, the State of Tennessee and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have stepped up to provide free and confidential crisis counseling to survivors in affected counties. This support is crucial in helping individuals and families cope with trauma, manage stress, and rebuild their lives.

The Devastation Caused by Tropical Storm Helene

Tropical Storm Helene hit Tennessee with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and severe flooding, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. Many residents in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington counties were displaced from their homes, while others suffered significant property damage.

In addition to the physical damage, survivors are facing emotional distress—a common but often overlooked consequence of disasters. Losing a home, experiencing financial uncertainty, or even witnessing destruction can cause anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How Crisis Counseling Can Help

To assist those struggling with the emotional toll of the storm, FEMA and the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS) have launched the Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program (CCP).

This program is designed to help people process trauma, manage stress, and rebuild resilience. It does not replace traditional therapy or psychiatric treatment, but rather provides short-term emotional support and guidance.

Who Is Eligible for Support?

The crisis counseling services are available to anyone who lives or works in the affected Tennessee counties, regardless of whether they have applied for FEMA disaster assistance. This means that even individuals who do not qualify for federal financial aid can still access mental health support.

The eligible counties include:

• Carter
• Cocke
• Greene
• Hamblen
• Hawkins
• Johnson
• Unicoi
• Washington

Whether you are a homeowner, renter, business owner, or worker affected by the storm, you can receive support.

What Services Are Provided?

The Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) offers multiple forms of assistance to help survivors regain stability:

1. Personal Crisis Counseling

Trained crisis counselors provide one-on-one support, helping survivors work through their emotions, process trauma, and develop coping strategies.

2. Group Counseling Sessions

Support groups are available for those who prefer to connect with others facing similar struggles. Sharing experiences and discussing challenges in a safe, supportive environment can help individuals feel less alone.

3. Home and Shelter Visits

For those who are unable to travel, counselors can visit survivors at home, in shelters, temporary housing, or even places of worship.

4. Educational Programs and Emotional Support

Workshops and community sessions offer guidance on managing stress, dealing with grief, and understanding how disasters affect mental health.

How to Access Help

If you or someone you know needs emotional support, there are multiple ways to get help:

1. Call or Text the Disaster Distress Helpline
   • Phone: 800-985-5990
   • Text: “TalkWithUs” to 66746
   • Available 24/7 in multiple languages
2. Visit a Local Crisis Counseling Center
   • FEMA and state agencies will be setting up local assistance centers where survivors can talk to crisis counselors in person.
3. Online Resources for Mental Health Support
   • NAMI Tennessee: Offers mental health resources and crisis support. More information at NAMITN.ORG
   • SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: Provides 24/7 mental health support for disaster survivors at FEMA.GOV

Why Mental Health Support Is Essential After a Disaster

Disasters like Tropical Storm Helene do not just bring physical loss—they cause emotional distress that can last for months or even years. Some common mental health effects include:

• Stress and Anxiety: Uncertainty about housing, finances, and rebuilding can cause long-term stress.
• Depression: Feelings of hopelessness and sadness after losing a home or possessions are common.
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): Some survivors experience flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness.
• Social Withdrawal: Many disaster survivors isolate themselves, feeling overwhelmed or disconnected.

Getting support early can prevent long-term mental health struggles and help people recover faster.

What If You Know Someone Who Needs Help?

If you know someone struggling after the storm, you can help by:

• Encouraging them to seek support from FEMA’s crisis counseling services.
• Listening without judgment and offering emotional support.
• Helping them find resources for financial aid, housing, and food assistance.

Many survivors feel ashamed or hesitant to ask for help, but it’s important to remind them that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Other Assistance Available for Storm Survivors

In addition to crisis counseling, FEMA and the state of Tennessee offer other forms of disaster assistance:

• Temporary housing assistance for those displaced by the storm.
• Disaster unemployment benefits for individuals who lost jobs due to the storm.
• Financial aid for home repairs and rebuilding efforts.
• Low-interest disaster loans for businesses and homeowners.

If you need help with any of these services, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone

Recovering from Tropical Storm Helene will take time, but no one has to go through it alone. FEMA’s free crisis counseling services are available to help individuals, families, and entire communities heal emotionally and mentally.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out for help today. A conversation can be the first step toward healing.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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