[December 14, 2012]

Optum Offers Free Emotional Support Help Line for People Affected by Connecticut Shootings

Optum, a health services company, is offering a free emotional support help line for people affected by today's tragic shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. The help line will provide affected individuals with access to specially trained mental health specialists.

"Unexpected violence can lead to feelings of shock, grief, fear or anger," said Andy Sekel, Ph.D., CEO of Optum's specialty networks business. "It's healthy to talk through these reactions with caring professionals."

The company's toll-free help line number, 866-342-6892, will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for as long as necessary. The service is free of charge and open to anyone. Specialy trained Optum mental health specialists help people manage their stress and anxiety so they can continue to address their everyday needs. Callers may also receive referrals to community resources to help them with specific concerns, including financial and legal matters.

Along with the toll-free help line, emotional support resources and information are available online at www.liveandworkwell.com.

About Optum
Optum (www.optum.com) is a leading information and technology-enabled health services business dedicated to helping make the health system work better for everyone. Optum comprises three companies - OptumHealth, OptumInsight and OptumRx - representing more than 35,000 employees worldwide who collaborate to deliver integrated, intelligent solutions that work to modernize the health system and improve overall population health.

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