U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
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My family is in shock, feeling grief and anger because of a disaster. How do we handle emotional trauma and upset?
Traumatic events are marked by a sense of horror, helplessness, serious injury, or the threat of serious injury or death. Traumatic events affect survivors, rescue workers, and the friends and relatives of victims who have been involved. They may also have an impact on people who have seen the event either firsthand or on television.
A person's response varies, but you may see different emotional, physical, and behavioral ways of coping. To learn about the signs and symptoms and how you can help, you may want to visit the following sites:
Coping:
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Coping With a Traumatic Event (CDC)
This site provides general information about traumatic events and describes how people typically respond during a disaster. Information is also provided about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and how you can help yourself and others.
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Coping with Disasters (MedlinePlus)
This library site provides links to HHS and external organizations with resources for coping with disasters.
Tips:
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Tips for Talking About Traumatic Events (SAMHSA)
Provides tips for parents, teachers, and disaster response personnel on talking with children and teenagers about traumatic events and disasters.
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Coping with Stress (CDC)
Describes common reactions to traumatic events with tips for parents on what to look for and building a community support group. Crisis phone numbers are provided for children and school personnel.
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Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters: What Parents Can Do (NIH/NIMH)
A booklet describes what parents can do to help children and adolescents cope with violence and disasters.
Mental Health Resources:
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Coping With a Disaster or Traumatic Event (CDC)
Provides information and resources for disaster responders, health professionals, States and Planners. Educational materials are made available for use by professionals.
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (NIH/NIMH)
Research materials and resources are provided for professionals dealing with people suffering after a disaster.
Last Reviewed: 10/26/2012
