Crisis support line offered for Texans impacted by floods

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Friday that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) launched the Texas Flooding Emotional Support Line.

The support line was created for Texans who were impacted by recent catastrophic floods, according to Abbott's press office.

“The State of Texas continues working to ensure that Texans hardest hit by these devastating floods have the resources and support they need, and that includes mental health support,” said Governor Abbott. “This new statewide crisis support line will ensure survivors, families, and first responders have access to emotional support and crisis counseling as they work to heal and recover.

The crisis support line is available 24/7 and provides professional crisis counseling at no cost by calling 833-812-2480.

All calls are confidential and answered by specially trained professionals to work with disaster survivors, according to the press release.

"The physical and emotional effects from a natural disaster are profound, and can have lasting effects on hearts, minds and communities,” said Michelle Alletto, HHSC chief program and services officer. “Dedicated mental health support is available to help our fellow Texans cope with loss, rebuild and heal."  

Abbott's press office said that through the crisis counseling, Texans can receive disaster recovery options and referrals to other programs.

To learn more about the mental health resources available to Texans, visit the Disaster Behavioral Health Services website.