Public Suffering Trauma From Attacks
The mental health fallout from September's terrorist attacks may affect those who witnessed disturbing images on television or in person as well survivors and rescue workers, says UAB social work expert Pam Valentine, Ph.D. "Vicarious traumatization" can cause trauma-related symptoms like depression, anxiety, or recurring thoughts. Valentine says protocols must be established for educating the public about trauma, its symptoms and where to find mental health services. To handle the large numbers seeking help, "Various agencies should collaborate and use brief trauma assessment tools to collect vital information on people's mental states, prior traumatic events, and their support networks. This information is then used for referrals for low-intensity interventions such as debriefings or higher-level mental health interventions."
Contact: Gail Short, Media Relations, 205-934-8931 or [email protected].
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