of clothes for each of your family members, copies of insurance documents, personal hygiene items (toothpaste, shampoo, etc), comfort items for children, a first aid kit, and flashlights. Know what resources are available in your area Be aware of what emergency mental health resources are available in your community during an emergency or disaster situation. If you are evacuating, find out what hospitals are nearby and how to get to them if needed. In the United States, the American Red Cross often has disaster mental health personnel available after a disaster has occurred. You may also be able to access resources through Employee Assistance Programs or local mental health organizations. If you are followed by a case worker, make sure you know how to contact them in case of an emergency. Don't forget, these preparations should supplement your general emergency preparedness plans -- for example having a sufficient food and water to take care of your family for several days. General emergency preparedness tips and recommendations are available from various agencies, including the Red Cross , FEMA , and the Government of Canada . Post navigation One thought on " Emergency preparedness for people with a mental illness " Great reminder D! I had never thought about this. I function well when on adrenaline, but don't know how well I'd function as the dust settles and the lengthier waiting period sets in -waiting to be allowed to return home or waiting for a place to live, which can last days