Welcome to the Disaster Resource Network!


January 10, 2023


SVPA Statement on Weather Impact on Vulnerable Populations -

What You Can Do To Help!


Dear Sacramento Valley Psychological Association Members and Community,


Statewide we are experiencing unprecedented strains on our communities due to storms and heavy rain on already saturated soils, with additional heavy mountain snow and damaging winds. This will result in a number of rivers reaching the flood stage. We are concerned for two primary reasons: (1) we already have saturated soils, full rivers, and overflowing creeks, only elevating the risk for significant flooding; and (2) we are all fatigued leading us to let our guard down and dismiss evacuation orders. Individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges, especially those with more significant impairments, are at risk.


In addition, the conditions people are facing are extremely stressful. People are more likely to be anxious and mentally and emotionally strained.


So what can you do to help?


Please ensure that the population you serve is tracking the implications of the upcoming weather system and ensure that they pay close attention to local authorities for evacuation orders.


Please help distribute information on how to best prepare as we, as mental health professionals, are trusted messengers in the community. The California Health and Human Services team has developed an online resource guide, found here: https://bit.ly/CalHHSEmergencyResourceGuide 


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This guide contains helpful information such as creating a personal emergency plan, a prescription drug guide, mental health services, social services, health care services, and additional resources including an universal wellness checks questionnaire.


In addition, community-based organizations and mutual aid groups are helping our local unhoused community members restore vital survival gear that they have lost in the storms. Your monetary gift will allow these groups to provide immediate, street-level support to people experiencing homelessness in our community:


Humanitarian Action Network: https://dobetterhan.org


Sacramento Homeless Union: https://www.sacramentohomelessunion.org 


Sacramento Loaves and Fishes: https://sacloaves.org


Thank you for your dedication to improved behavioral health and for your service and support of the Sacramento region’s mental health everyday.


If you or someone you know is in need of help, please reach out to SVPA at sacpsychologists@gmail.com to be connected with resources.


We are sending love to our City and the people living in it.


In Solidarity,


The SVPA Board of Directors


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The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.



APA Disaster Mental Health Information



Psychological First Aid



COVID-19 Information and Resources from APA


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Getting Involved and Connected


The SVPA Disaster Resource Network Chair is currently vacant.

If you are interested in this position, please review the position description found here and send an email expressing your interest to sacpsychologists@gmail.com

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Past DRN Events:


4/06/22 SVPA Statement of Support & Solidarity with the Sacramento Community In The Wake of Community Gun Violence


9/01/21 Letter from SVPA DRN Chair re: Wildfires


10/6/20: Addiction and COVID-19 Influences 


3/16/20 Letter from SVPA President re: COVID-19 


11/19/19: Assessment and Treatment of Firesetting Behavior in Children and Youth: Collaboration Between Firefighters Burn Institute and Mental Health Clinicians 


10/18/14: Disaster Mental Health - Care of Children 


9/20/14: School Violence, School Shootings 


8/16/14: Mass Casualty and Terrorism 


6/21/14Theory of Disaster Mental Health Intervention 




         


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