East Ridge Thanks Flood Heros

East Ridge took time to say thanks to its flood heros...the men and women who worked to save lives when the waters swamped East Ridge four weeks ago.

They held a reception and handed out around 100 certificates.during Thursdays city council meeting.

Mayor Mike Steele says the outpouring of kindness overwhelmed the community.

Mayor Mike Steele, East Ridge, "Many of these folks I mean it's part of their life it's part of who they are they just give of themselves everyday and most of the time that giving of theirself is overlooked."

Meanwhile people continue to put their lives together after the floods.

The SBA has set up shop to offer them low interest loans.

Meanwhile mental health experts in Georgia warn that stress-related issues increasingly surface since the floods.

They say symptoms like sleeplessness, fatigue, anger and depression may take weeks to bubble up.

Children and the elderly are most at risk.

Counselors urge caregivers to encourage kids to talk or draw about their experience.

Also, listen and answer questions honestly.

Spend extra time with young children and give extra hugs and reassurance.

Free crisis counseling is available for flood victims.

Call 1-800-715-4225.