Counseling and Crisis Response Services

Lafayette General Health has compiled the following resources to assist families, victims and the community cope with Thursday’s tragedy. If you find yourself struggling to process your emotions or simply need someone to talk to, please use the resources below as a starting point. 
(UPDATED: 7/25/15 at 1:30 p.m.)

Community-at-Large
Anxiety In Times of Crisis (PDF)

Trauma in The Community (PDF)

Coping with a Mass Trauma Event (PDF)

Acadiana Area Human Services District is available to serve the community- witnesses, family members, first responders – they offer outpatient services, crisis intervention, and psychiatric evals and medication (as needed). The clinic number is (337) 262-4100 and the crisis line is available 24/7 at (877) 655-8241.

Louisiana Healthcare Connections offers a 24-hour toll-free crisis hotline 1-877-941-8079 for the Lafayette community and those affected around the state. This line is staffed by behavioral health professionals offering counseling as well as other resources; you do not need to be a Louisiana Healthcare Connections member to call.

Office of Behavioral Health Crisis Counseling 24-Hour Hotline: 1-866-310-7977

Disaster Distress Helpline (24/7): 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746

Healing House; (337) 234-0443

The UL Lafayette Clinic for Counseling and Personal Development: (337) 482-1018

GriefShare: (337) 593-3664

Dial 337-232-HELP or you can 2-1-1 for any cell phone 24/7 for information on counseling services.

Resources for Children
When young children experience a traumatic stressor, their first response is usually to look for reassurance from the adults who care for them. The most important adults in a young child’s life are his/her caregivers and relatives. These adults can help reestablish security and stability for children who have experienced trauma.

Helping Young Children Cope After Exposure to a Traumatic Event (link)

Talking to Children About the Shooting (PDF)

Psychological Impact of the Recent Shooting (PDF)

Mobile Apps Available in the Apple and Google Play Stores
There are some free apps shared from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals that might be helpful. These apps should both be available Apple and the Google Play stores. While some apps are geared more towards clinicians, the two relaxation ones are for anyone.

SAMHSA’s Disaster Behavioral Health App
VA’s PTSD app
VA’s Breathe2Relax app
Psychological First Aid app
PTSD Center’s Mindfulness coach (Relaxation)
SAMHSA’s Suicide Safe App