The coronavirus pandemic is a disaster.
This is a time of great stress here in Missouri and around the world. Many, if not all, of us are struggling on some level and could use some extra support to get through this unprecedented event.
Here’s some good news, though: Show Me Hope is here to help.
Tri-County Mental Health Services is a participant in this statewide disaster recovery program, which means we can offer free, anonymous crisis counseling services for individuals, families, and community groups.
Your first step is to call 1-800-985-5990 (TTY 1-800-846-8517) or text TalkWithUs to 66746 if you are seeking assistance for yourself or your loved one.
¿Habla español? Llame al número 1-800-985-5990 y oprime “2” o envíe un texto con el mensaje “HABLANOS” al 66746. Más información en español aquí.
We are helping organizations to be resilient in the face of disaster, too. To find out how we can help, call Tri-County Mental Health at (816) 468-0400.
You may also encounter representatives of Show Me Hope in the community. Feel free to ask them questions and for the support you need as well.
Here are some more answers to some frequently asked questions:
How does this work?
When you call the disaster distress hotline, you’ll speak with a crisis counselor. They can help you identify the sources of your distress and find ways to cope effectively. They can help connect you with resources online and throughout the community as well.
How much does this cost?
It’s free!
Do I need insurance for this?
Nope! This program is free, so we don’t need to file any insurance claims. If you do need more extensive mental health treatment, we will help you figure out how to access it.
My loved one does not speak English. Can you still help them?
Yes. For Spanish speakers, call 1-800-985-5990 and press “2,” or text Hablanos to 66746.
Callers to the hotline can also connect with counselors in over 100 other languages via 3rd-party interpretation services. Simply call 1-800-985-5990 and ask for a translator in your preferred language. More information about the Disaster Distress Hotline in 30 other common languages is available here.
Is this mental health treatment?
No. Our crisis counselors do not collect any personal information, give a diagnosis, or create a medical record for you. If they do identify a need for more intensive treatment, we will help you get connected with those resources.
How do I know if I’m experiencing disaster stress?
Dealing with the pandemic can cause many different kinds of reactions, and how we experience disaster stress is different for everyone. Here’s a list of common disaster reactions.
I’ve been drinking a lot more alcohol the past few months. Should I get help?
While many people turn to substances like alcohol in times of stress, this way of coping can lead to more problems. Our crisis counselors can help you identify more positive coping strategies, and if you need more extensive help, we can help you access it.
My child is really having a hard time. Can you help?
This has been a really tough time for kids and families alike! Yes, our crisis counselors can work with children and teens individually, as well as families. We also will be offering online resources including webinars and videos specifically to help kids, teens, and families deal with this disaster.
My mom lives in a nursing home, and I’m really worried about her. Can you help?
Yes. The visitor restrictions required during this pandemic are leading to a lot of stress for a lot of people. We can provide crisis counseling for residents in senior living, and we can help you, too, as you deal with your own stress around this new way of caregiving. We will also be offering online resources like webinars and videos specifically to help older adults and caregivers deal with this disaster.
Can you help my organization?
Yes. Community organizations are also stressed by disasters like this pandemic, and Show Me Hope is here to help your organization and your people to be resilient. We can offer education and support groups via Zoom, and we can share and develop online and written resources specific to the needs of your group (e.g. short videos to be viewed during lunch breaks.) Call Tri-County Mental Health at (816) 468-0400 to get started.
I have another question.
Great! Give us a call! There’s no risk to this. Call 1-800-985-5990 (TTY 1-800-846-8517) or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with crisis counseling for yourself or a loved one, or call Tri-County Mental Health (816) 468-0400 for help for your group.
Want to stay connected with Show Me Hope and Tri-County Mental Health Services? Learn more on the Missouri Show Me Hope website and follow us on Facebook!
