Is Project PPE coming to an end?
Yes, the Promoting Positive Emotions program is grant-funded and the grant period is coming to an end on Wednesday, June 2nd, 2021. But, help is still here. Our program partners are existing local behavioral health service providers throughout the state and they aren’t going anywhere. You can also reach out to AR-Connect, a grant-funded program provided through UAMS. Watch this video to learn more about the transition and where you can reach out for help after June 2nd.
What is Project PPE?
Project PPE (Promoting Positive Emotions) is a Crisis Counseling Program funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help individuals and communities recover from natural and human-caused disasters such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. The program utilizes local residents hired through community behavioral health providers to provide education, outreach, crisis counseling and referrals to individuals and families impacted by the current pandemic. The program is administered by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health in coordination with local providers throughout the state.
How much do these services cost?
Our crisis counseling services are completely free to use.
Is there an age requirement to receive service?
There are no age requirements. Project PPE and our partners are happy to work with children under age 18 as long as there is parent/guardian consent to provide our services.
Are the counseling sessions confidential?
Crisis counselors do not classify, label, or diagnose people; no records or case files are kept.
What’s the difference between crisis counseling and mental health services?
The key difference between traditional mental health services and crisis counseling is the way services are provided. Mental health services implies assistance to individuals for an existing behavioral condition or disorder.
Crisis counseling serves to engage people and encourage them to talk about their experiences and teaches ways to manage stress. These activities can help counselors identify people who may need referrals to behavioral health treatment. They also enhance social and emotional connections to others in the community and promote effective coping strategies and resilience. Crisis Counselors work closely with community organizations to familiarize themselves with available resources and to link survivors to needed services.
What factors can lead to someone needing crisis counseling?
The global social and economic impact of COVID-19 can’t be understated. Arkansas is no different with many residents experiencing the pain associated from this pandemic be it unemployment, sickness, isolation and the loss of loved ones.
How do I know if I’m going through a crisis related to COVID-19?
Since the pandemic began, if you or a loved one have felt sadness, loneliness, detachment, isolation, nervousness, fear and are worried about the future - you may be in need of help.
Do I have to be a resident of Arkansas to receive these free services?
Yes. The PPE program has been created to help those Arkansas residents directly impacted by COVID-19. If you live outside of Arkansas and are needing help, please go to www.samhsa.gov to see what resources are available in your area.
What is NOT covered by the PPE program?
The PPE program does not cover traditional mental health diagnosis/treatment, psychiatric services, medication, transportation, delivery of food/supplies, child care, or financial assistance.
How are partners ensuring that in-facility appointments are safe for clients?
All PPE partners recognize safety is top priority for both their clients and staff. The partners for this program are committed to following all CDC guidelines. For those clients who are still unsure, many partners also are offering telehealth appointments.
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is the use of videoconferencing technology to deliver crisis counseling services from a distance.
Can I use my phone or tablet to receive telehealth services?
Yes, clients can use a smartphone, tablet, computer or any other device that has sound/microphone enabled.