Free mental health support for North Carolinians affected by Helene
If you or a loved one is among the millions of North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene, know that free mental health support is available.
In response to Hurricane Helene’s widespread impact across North Carolina, the state government has emphasized the importance of mental health support for affected individuals.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) encourages those in need to reach out for assistance, while multiple resources have been made available to ensure support for mental health and substance use recovery. Secretary Kody H. Kinsley of NCDHHS highlighted that the effects of the hurricane will persist beyond the immediate aftermath, and the state is committed to providing long-term support.
Available mental health resources
The Disaster Distress Helpline, accessible 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990, offers immediate crisis counseling in both English and Spanish for anyone impacted by natural disasters. Similarly, the 988 Lifeline provides support to individuals through calls, texts, or chats with trained counselors. The Peer Warmline is another resource available to offer non-clinical support and resources to those in crisis, staffed by individuals living in recovery.
For first responders and volunteers, the Hope4NC Helpline provides confidential support around the clock to manage stress and emotional fatigue. Additionally, the Disability Disaster Hotline is available for people with disabilities and their families to access information and referrals during the disaster period. Crisis lines are operational in various regions to ensure assistance is available for those without insurance or on Medicaid.
Community Crisis Centers and Mobile Crisis teams are reopening and operating to provide urgent care in affected areas. Resources such as walk-in clinics and opioid treatment programs remain accessible, while the Connections App offers free and confidential support for mental health and substance recovery in Western North Carolina.
The state government is also working with partners to address medication needs through emergency prescription assistance programs.
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