News

Latest Statewide News

April 30, 2007

Tips for Coping with Crisis and Disaster

1. If you feel overwhelmed by your emotions, seek help from your school Student Assistance Program through your guidance counselor or any teacher, call 9-1-1 or The National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-TALK.
   
   In Pennsylvania’s public high schools the guidance counselor can refer you to their confidential Student Assistance Program that can refer students and families to appropriate mental health care. They can help you access no cost mental health care.
2. A range of emotions are normal following tragic events: ranging from depression, anxiousness, anger and "numbness."
3. If you feel depressed, anxious or angry, talk to friends, family, counselors or others around you. Likely, those around you are experiencing similar feelings.
4. Use only reliable sources for keeping up-to-date on developments and information.
5. Limit television viewing. It can be difficult to process images and messages in news reports.

The information above is provided by Mental Health America.

Other places to find information:

• The American Psychiatric Association (APA) offers information for college students about caring for their mental health. 
• Healthy Minds includes tips for students and colleges on how to minimize possible mental and emotional effects of trauma caused by destruction and loss of life.