Boston Disaster Distress Helpline Now Open

Crisis counseling available on free helpline

(RxWiki News) The Boston Marathon bombing was as disturbing as it was senseless. These horrible events are hard to make sense of and can cause lasting emotional turmoil. Counseling is just a free phone call away.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has set up a counseling hotline for anyone – anywhere – who is struggling in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings.

The Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 provides immediate counseling and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People can also text TalkWithUs to 66746 for help dealing with the Boston tragedy.

"Call a counselor if you need help after experiencing tragedy."

The Helpline connects callers to trained counselors from the closest crisis counseling center.

Crisis counselors are available to provide confidential counseling, referrals to professionals and other support services available in the caller’s area.

“When disaster strikes, people react with increased anxiety, worry, and anger. With community and family support, most of us bounce back. Some may need extra assistance to cope with unfolding events and uncertainties,” said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde.

“People seeking emotional help in the aftermath of a disaster can now call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 and begin the process of recovery,” she said.

The Helpline can also be accessed at the website cite below and TTY for deaf and hearing impaired: 1-800-846-8517.

Review Date: 
April 17, 2013