Contact Us

Oil Spill Distress Helpline

1-800-985-5990
or Text TalkWithUs to 66746

Feeling stressed?
If you or someone you know has been affected by the oil spill and needs immediate assistance, please call this toll-free number for information, support, and counseling. You will be connected to the nearest Gulf Coast area crisis center.

SAMHSA's Tips for Dealing with the Gulf Oil Spill

For more information about ways parents and teachers can talk with children about the oil spill, please visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Response website. You will also find fact sheets for adults about managing their own stress and dealing with grief related to the disaster.

Warning Signs

Children, teenagers, and adults can react to disasters like the oil spill in very different ways. When they can’t talk about their feelings, they may show stress through changes in their behavior. These resources let you know what to look for and what you can say to help.

Coping Resources

When children, teens, and adults are dealing with the stress from the Gulf oil spill, talking may not be enough. These resources provide ideas about what to do you can do at home to help children, family members, and yourself cope.