Did you know that more than half of US families have been affected by some kind of disaster, or that one in four children experience a traumatic event before adulthood? Stress and trauma can affect people of all ages, including children. Stress in Childhood (available in Spanish) and Understanding Childhood Trauma review common stressors for children, physical and emotional signs of unresolved stress, and tips for how parents can help, including when parents should talk to their child's healthcare provider.
Understanding Childhood Trauma is part of SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative and includes learning materials and resources (some in Spanish) for parents to better understand trauma.
Resources for Individuals in Need of Assistance (emergent or otherwise)
new! The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 free and confidential support via phone or text for people in distress. This shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. There is also a web chat available 24/7.
Prevention and crisis resources, including posters and a magnet (available in Spanish), wallet cards, and safety plan pads, are available for professionals to download or order.
- The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262), is a free English and Spanish language confidential hotline for pregnant and new moms, available 24/7. Check out the Maternal Mental Health page on WIC Works for an additional resource.
- SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is a confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance use/addiction and/or mental health problems.
- Mental Health America's Finding Therapy site shares a fact sheet and referral sources.
- The Helping Your Loved One Who is Suicidal: A Guide for Family and Friends downloadable publication provides information on understanding suicide, warning signs and action steps to take, and how to prevent future attempts and keep your loved one safe.
Looking for more information? Check out these mental health-related resources found on WIC Works.