Mental Health Issues Following a Disaster

Disasters affect people in many different ways: Lives are disrupted, jobs are lost, homes and property are destroyed. These circumstances can cause mental strain on those affected by a disaster. According to the National Mental Health Information Center, "Almost everyone who lives through such an event experiences some feelings of sadness and depression. Depending on the individual, these feelings can vary in intensity and duration".

The following links are provided by the National Center for Mental Health Services and were developed to aid in the recovery process following a disaster crisis.

All links open in a new browser window.

1. After a Disaster: A Guide for Parents and Teachers
   http://www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/KEN-01-0093/default.asp
2. After a Disaster: Self-Care Tips for Dealing with Stress
   http://www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/KEN-01-0097/default.asp
3. How to Help Children After a Disaster
   http://www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/KEN-01-0091/default.asp
4. Reaction of Children to a Disaster
   http://www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/KEN01-0101/default.asp
   
5. The Long-term Impact of a Traumatic Event: What to Expect in Your Personal, Family, Work, and Financial Life
   http://www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/NMH02-0139/default.asp