Phila.gov
The expectation of safety in our own city, in our own homes, was shattered once again this week when an armed man walked through the city’s Kingsessing neighborhood, shooting and killing five people and injuring several more.
My heart goes out to those who suffered physically – and to those who continue to experience trauma and grief from this tragedy, including family members, friends, neighbors, and community members, as well as emergency first responders.
Please know in this time when it is difficult to find that sense of safety within our city that you are not alone.
The City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS) is here for you. Today, tomorrow, and whenever you may need us.
DBHIDS’ trauma support services, including the Network of Neighbors and multiple community engagement programs and collaborations, can help you understand, manage, and process your feelings and connect you with the support you need. Click for details.
DBHIDS has a comprehensive strategy with more than 30 programs that support individuals and communities experiencing trauma. For an in depth look at our work, find our comprehensive Trauma-Equity-Community (TEC) plan here.
Children and parents can access multiple supports and services, including Children’s Crisis Response Centers, the Philadelphia Alliance for Child Trauma Services (PACTS), and more that are specially designed for their needs. Click for details.
And our partner SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, has developed a number of resources to help individuals, families, neighborhoods, and communities cope with mass shootings. Click for details.
DBHIDS, along with the City of Philadelphia and our network of provider partners, have developed these supports and others to help people in need. Visit our Boost Your Mood page at DBHIDS.org/Boost for easy access to the above resources as well as additional tip sheets, phone numbers, expert advice, a free and anonymous self-assessment tool, and more.
Or you can call member services at 888-545-2600 to be connected to support and treatment 24/7. Those in need of immediate support can always find help by calling the Philadelphia Crisis Line at 988.
Thank you,
Jill Bowen, Ph.D.
DBHIDS Commissioner
