The Daily Journal. — Venezuelan authorities announced on Sunday the launch of a nationwide psychological support hotline to assist people struggling with the emotional impact of the earthquakes that struck on June 24.
Jorge Rodríguez, a leader of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV), said the service will operate through the telephone number 0800-AYUDA-01 as part of the government’s response to the psychological consequences of the disaster.
Rodríguez argued that the earthquakes have affected far more than property and human lives.
“A significant number of people across the country need help because every Venezuelan became a victim of the two devastating earthquakes of June 24,” he said during an official emergency briefing.
The government official added that millions of people are experiencing symptoms associated with the trauma caused by the disaster.
“The psychological impact has reached millions of people who are now experiencing anxiety, grief, sadness, and what we know as post-traumatic stress disorder,” he said.
According to Rodríguez, a team of psychologists and psychiatrists will staff the 0800-AYUDA-01 hotline. The specialists will provide initial counseling and determine whether callers require referrals to additional mental health services.
“Beginning this afternoon, every Venezuelan who needs psychological support, wishes to speak with a professional, or requires referral to another institution will have access to the 0800-AYUDA-01 hotline. Our team of psychologists and psychiatrists will answer every call and provide the appropriate guidance,” he said.
According to the latest official report, the twin earthquakes of June 24 have claimed 1,450 lives and injured more than 3,000 people.
