Resources: Emergency Planning
Provides a review of relevant research focused on the delivery of behavioral healthcare in disaster response in rural and remote areas. Describes the unique needs and challenges of providing behavioral health services to rural and isolated communities as a part of the wider response to natural or man-made disasters. Discusses different approaches to address behavioral health needs after a disaster or crisis, covering the areas of government and policy, community initiatives, and telebehavioral health.
Fact sheet detailing a 6-step planning process to help schools and institutions of higher education develop or update emergency operation plans (EOPs) to address overdose and other potential threats and issues resulting from fentanyl and opioid misuse. Discusses the 5 mission areas of preparedness for opioid-related emergencies and the effects of the opioid crisis on school-aged children, young adults, and school safety. Includes links to additional resources and information to aid in the development of school EOPs, and programs and activities to prepare for and respond to an opioid overdose.
Shares information for crisis counselors, outreach workers, and other supportive service providers on how to best respond to the behavioral health needs of diverse rural populations following a disaster. Considers unique risk factors, strengths, and the behavioral health impacts of disasters on rural populations. Highlights best practices to help rural individuals and communities access mental health and substance use services and treatment after disaster events. Includes a summary of recommendations, resources, and a customizable tip sheet for outreach to rural residents.
Provides an overview of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) efforts to improve the behavioral health of communities and responders while they prepare, respond, and recover from disasters. Provides links to technical assistance resources, a helpline, and treatment locators designed to help states, territories, tribes, and responders effectively plan for and respond to disasters to minimize negative outcomes, such as developing new or exacerbating existing substance use disorder (SUD) or mental illness.
Provides training and technical assistance to states, tribes, and local communities to support the delivery of mental health and substance use-related services in response to disasters. Offers expert consultation, training, and other resources to help communities prepare for and respond to the behavioral health needs of individuals during and after a natural or human-caused disaster. Includes resources focused on special populations, including rural, tribal, and other communities that experience disparities during disaster events.