A month has passed since the devastating Texas floods took lives, and survivors are struggling with emotional wounds and have yet to receive financial aid.
In the aftermath of the devastating 2016 Central Texas flooding, several organizations and programs are offering mental health support and financial assistance to those affected.
Mental Health Support
For those struggling emotionally, resources are available to provide much-needed help. Austin Family Counseling offers free 1–2 therapy sessions for youth (up to age 25) and families affected by the floods, with in-person and telehealth options and bilingual services. Trauma-trained therapists are ready to support flood survivors during this difficult time [1].
The Disaster Distress Helpline provides free, confidential emotional support 24/7 by phone or text for anyone experiencing disaster-related distress. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 for help [1][3]. Similar trauma-focused support is available from the Austin Child Guidance Center and the UT Health Trauma and Resilience Center [1].
Programs like the Heroes Helpline and Treat Mental Health Texas offer specialized mental health services for first responders and healthcare workers involved in disaster response [3]. Educational materials to help families talk to children about traumatic events and flood experiences are also available [1].
Financial and Practical Assistance
While specific financial aid programs from the 2016 flood may not be listed, community organizations and relief drives, such as those run by The Highlands School and others, have historically mobilized donations and resources for recovery efforts, including support for impacted families [4].
Agencies involved in disaster response often address financial relief related to home damage, displacement, and loss of support systems as a necessary part of recovery, helping people connect with practical assistance [2]. Foundations like Foundation 1023 provide funding for emotional and wellness services, which may be part of broader recovery support efforts [3].
Additional Support and Training
Free online training and fact sheets about disaster mental health, psychological first aid, and helping others manage acute stress are available to community members and workers engaging in recovery efforts, supporting both survivors and responders [2].
Accessing Resources
Survivors can connect with local counseling centers, helplines, and community organizations to access these resources. They can also request public assistance through the Texas Division of Emergency Management, the American Red Cross, 211 Texas, and local charity organizations.
Homeowners and renters in 10 counties affected by the flooding in Central Texas are eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance. However, many survivors are unsure about the amount of support they'll receive from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other government programs [5].
While FEMA assistance is capped at $43,600, few families ever receive the full amount. The average FEMA home repair payment for the flooding disaster is about $8,000, but it can be much higher or lower depending on the level of loss [6].
The State of Texas and the US Small Business Administration may also be able to help with disaster-related needs. However, survivors have reported that the aid has been painfully slow, and in some cases, nonexistent [7].
In conclusion, flood survivors in Central Texas have access to free mental health counseling (including for youth and families), 24/7 emotional support lines, trauma-informed care telehealth services, practical recovery information, and community relief efforts that may include financial support or material aid [1][2][3][4]. Connecting with local counseling centers, helplines, and community organizations is a key step in accessing these resources.
[1] Austin Family Counseling
[2] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
[3] UT Health Austin
[4] The Highlands School
[5] Texas Division of Emergency Management
[6] FEMA Individual Assistance Program
[7] Austin American-Statesman
- In the wake of the 2016 Central Texas flooding, organizations such as Austin Family Counseling provide us with therapies-and-treatments for mental health concerns, offering free sessions to youth and families, even telehealth options, and services in both English and Spanish.
- For those seeking emotional support, the Disaster Distress Helpline is available 24/7, providing us with confidential support for anyone experiencing disaster-related distress via phone or text.
- In addition to mental health services, community organizations like The Highlands School offer nutritional support in the form of donations and resources for recovery efforts, helping us maintain health-and-wellness during challenging times.
