FEMA Region 8 is giving South Dakota and three other states money to develop crisis counseling programs for residents struggling with stress and anxiety as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The federal assistance is also available to Colorado, North Dakota and Utah and will be classified under major disaster declarations previously approved for those states.
People who seek help through the program remain anonymous. Crisis counselors do not keep individual records or case files and avoid classifying, labeling or diagnosing individuals in any way. The program helps people understand their current situation, their reactions and supports short-term interventions focused on:
- mitigating stress
- promoting the use or development of coping strategies
- providing emotional support
- encouraging links with other individuals and agencies who may help survivors in their recovery process
As the state programs are approved, additional information will be made available for how individuals can access this crisis counseling assistance. The state programs will be funded by FEMA but will use local providers to deliver the counseling services.
With the approvals, FEMA will continue to support these states on establishing their programs and approve submitted plans. The Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training program is funded by FEMA and overseen by FEMA in coordination with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The program assists individuals and communities in recovering from the psychological effects of natural and human caused disasters through community-based outreach and educational services.
Due to the COVID-19 nationwide emergency and the need to protect the safety and health of all Americans, the crisis counseling will be delivered by phone, internet and the media (including social media).
