People talk openly about financial and economic problems, but there is little open discussion about the toll financial hardship can take on a person’s health. Financial stress is a leading cause of depression and other significant health issues, both mental and physical. The toll financial stress takes on a person often is not outwardly visible and can silently intensify. If you are suffering, or if you know someone who is suffering, there are people who can help.

Our United States Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida has a section with resources on where to go for emotional support. Visit www.flmb.uscourts.gtov/support/

Community Resources: Statewide

United Way

The Heart of Florida United Way provides help to people in need through its Community Resource Line. Crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. They also provide referrals to health and human resources throughout Central Florida.

Dial 211 or 407-839-HELP (4357)

www.hfuw.org or http://www.hfuw.org/2-1-1-information-assistance-helpline/

Florida Employee Assistance Program

The Florida Employee Assistance Program provides confidential, professional, free counseling to state employees and their family members. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year.

Dial 1-800-860-2058

http://www.dms.myflorida.com/workforce_operations/people_first/employee_assistance_program_eap 

Federal Employee Assistance Programs

All Federal agencies provide Employee Assistance Programs. The programs are cost-free to Federal employees and are designed to help employees effectively address and overcome problems. Basic EAP services include free, voluntary, short-term counseling and referral for various issues affecting employee mental and emotional well-being.

For a point of contact for your agency’s EAP, check your agency’s intranet or internet website, or contact your human resources office.

For general information, visit the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s website at:

http://www.opm.gov/Employment_and_Benefits/worklife/

SAMHSA’S National Mental Health Information Center

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (“SAMHA”) provides a Mental Health Services Locator from which the public can access comprehensive information about mental health services and resources by clicking on a State or U.S. Territory from the map at:

http://www.samhsa.gov/

Sherry Ellis
Share
This