Call Iowa Concern for Help Coping with Stress of Tornadoes and Storm Damage

By Tammy Jacobs

At least a dozen tornadoes struck Iowa on April 26, according to the National Weather Service. Iowans struggling to deal with the stress from the devastation of tornadoes and severe storms can call Iowa Concern for help, 24/7, says Tammy Jacobs, coordinator for the long-time service from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

“By calling Iowa Concern at 800-447-1985 for help, you can talk to a person who cares, learn about your legal rights, discuss financial concerns and find other assistance,” Jacobs said.

With a toll-free phone number, live chat capabilities and a website, Iowa Concern services are available 24 hours a day, seven days per week at no charge. Iowa Concern provides access to stress counselors and an attorney for legal education, as well as information and referral services for a wide variety of topics.

Language interpretation services are available. Or visit the website, https://www.extension.iastate.edu/iowaconcern/, to live chat with a stress counselor one-on-one in a secure environment. Iowans can also email an expert regarding legal, finance, stress, or crisis and disaster issues. All personal information is kept confidential.

Disaster and crisis recovery resources

Iowans looking for recovery resources related to severe weather, natural disasters and other crises may visit extension’s disaster and crisis recovery website, https://www.extension.iastate.edu/disasterrecovery/. During times of natural disaster and other crises, ISU Extension and Outreach offers educational resources to reduce the personal impact, working in partnership with the local, state and federal agencies addressing the need. This website is updated with research-based educational resources for specific types of disaster when events occur.