County of Orange
Health Care Agency

Office of the Director
Press Release

Juliette A. Poulson, RN, MN
Director

Mailing Address:
515 N. Sycamore St.
Santa Ana, Ca 92701

E-Mail: publicinfo@ochca.com

For Immediate Release
SEPTEMBER 13th, 2001

Contact: Maria Marquez
(714) 834-5904

(Santa Ana) - The County’s Health Care Agency director warns the public to listen to their feelings.

"Tuesday’s tragic events may trigger exaggerated anxiety and fear," said Julie Poulson, Director, Orange County Health Care Agency. "I encourage everyone to be sensitive to how they’re feeling. Professional support may be necessary if these feelings are extremely severe or last longer than a few weeks."

The following are just a few of the symptoms that may occur:

• Sadness/apathy

• Headaches

• Agitation/anger

• Upset stomach

• Fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Difficulty sleeping/nightmares

• Feeling helpless

If these symptoms persist, it would be prudent to seek help from a doctor, mental health professional, or the Mental Health Assistance Line at (714) 628-7085. A special Mental Health Assistance Line will activated Friday, September 14, at 2 p.m. and will be available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. until further notice. The Assistance Line will be staffed by mental health professionals and is a joint partnership between the Health Care Agency and the American Red Cross Orange County Chapter.

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