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Capital Area Counseling Provides Tips
for Talking to Children After a Disaster
PIERRE, S.D. -- Capital Area Counseling, with offices located in Pierre, wants parents and other caretakers to be familiar with ways they can respond to questions and concerns that children and youth may be having due to the recent flooding in the Pierre and Fort Pierre communities.
“Children and youth respond to disasters in many different ways,” said Dennis Pfrimmer, CEO of Capital Area Counseling. “Some may have reactions very soon after the event; others may seem to be doing fine for weeks or months, and then begin to show anxiety and fear in their behaviors. As parents and caretakers, we need to be aware of the signs so we can respond appropriately.”
Tips for Talking to Children After a Disaster
Capital Area Counseling is coordinating the local behavioral health (mental health and substance abuse) crisis response with support from surrounding communities and other statewide partners. Individuals and families who have been impacted by the flood and are dealing with stress, anxiety, fear and other behavioral health issues are encouraged to seek professional assistance. Counseling is currently available at no cost to those who are being impacted by this disaster in Pierre and Fort Pierre.
If you or any of your family members need to speak with someone about the flood and its impact on your life, professionals are available for call-in and walk-in assistance. All information is confidential.