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My heart continues to break for Texans. Kids going hungry and cold, people unnecessarily exposed to covid, hospitals without power, vulnerable people's lives at risk, infrastructure destroyed, & so much more. Plus the trauma everyone is experiencing that will outlast these days.
I'm not always a fan of hotlines and I know a lot of folks' phones are out of power. But for those in Texas who might need to talk to someone, there is a Disaster Distress Helpline run by @samhsagov at 1-800-985-5990. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline
I put the disclaimer on there bc I haven't always had great success with helplines but I know a lot of people have. This helpline is specifically for disasters like people are facing in Texas. Any extra help people can find is worth it right now.
I hope people who aren't in Texas can also commit to listening to those who come out of this with trauma. Right now, people in TX are in survival mode. But in the days and weeks ahead, trauma will work it's way up and present in lots of different ways.
One way to help can be to hold space and validate people's experiences. Ask what they need and be okay with just sitting with someone through the emotional ups and downs.
More on holding space: https://upliftconnect.com/hold-space/
More on holding space: https://upliftconnect.com/hold-space/
Another way to help is through the trauma-informed care principle of reframing judgment. People may have a range of different emotions. Instead of judging their reactions, realize they may be trauma responses. Again, hold space to allow someone to process what they need.
Financially help if you can. Direct giving to people is often the most helpful as there is a lot of indignity and further trauma of having to jump through hoops to get help from organizations. It's not easy to ask for help, believe people when they tell you what they need.
And with any help you give, remember these aspects of trauma informed care. Remember that each person's needs will be unique. Don't assume you know best or jump in with your own solutions. Be sensitive and gentle in your support.
