Where to find mental health help in Central Florida after downtown Orlando shooting

ORLANDO, Fla. – The growing mental health crisis continues amidst shootings.

Florida alone has accounted for 27 mass shootings in 2024 so far, according to Gun Violence Archive.

Studies show that such shootings can take a toll on mental health.

The American Psychological Association reported that antidepressant use increased more than 20% among young people who lived within five miles of a shooting out of a survey of 44 school shootings.

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Following the shooting early Friday morning in downtown Orlando which killed two people and injured six, according to officials, you may be in need of mental health resources to cope with the incident.

According to Mental Health America, Florida is ranked among the states with the highest access to mental health care.

Here is a list of some Central Florida mental health resources you can take advantage of in times of need:

• If you’re experiencing an emergency, dial 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
• University of Central Florida Counseling and Psychological Services: 407-823-2811
  • Where: 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, FL 32816
  • UCF CAPS offers free 24/7 services to undergraduate and graduate students in need of single solution-focused sessions, short-term individual and relationship counseling, group therapy and crisis services.
• Heart of Florida United Way: 211
  • Where: 1940 Cannery Way, Orlando
  • This hotline provides around-the-clock access to mental health assistance, financial programs, and more. You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 to access resources.
• Aspire Health Partners: 407-875-3700
  • Where: Multiple locations
  • Aspire Health Partners, Inc. is a nonprofit partnered with the Orange County Government that provides mental health services for adults. Both in-patient and out-patient services are available. Aspire also serves Brevard, Hillsborough, Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.
• Mental Health Association of Central Florida: 407-898-0110
  • Where: 605 E. Robinson St., Suite 450, Orlando
  • The Mental Health Association provides access to a free mental health clinic. It offers peer support, guardian advocates and professional referrals.
• Federation of Families of Central Florida: 407-334-8049
  • Where: 2605 Maitland Center Parkway, Suite D, Maitland
  • Federation of Families offers year-round informational meetings, support groups, workshops, outreach events, respite care and parent peer support.

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