Coping with disaster is challenging in itself, but what many of us forget is that a person can be traumatized vicariously. Not only can we experience fear of personal injury or loss, but disaster and traumatic events can bring forth memories and unresolved issues from past experiences as well.

For this reason, it is a good idea to avail yourself of resources which educate and give practical suggestions. If that is not enough the best course is to seek professional help such as seeing a Psychologist.

An excellent resource via the internet is The California Psychological Association at www.calpsychlink.org as well as The American Psychological Association website at www.apa.org. Here you will find many helpful articles and resources.

Some other helpful websites are:

http://www.nimh.org
National Institute of Mental Health Website. A comprehensive section entitled Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters. Contains more in-depth information on Trauma, PTSD, etc.

http://www.mentalhealth.org
National Mental Health Information Center. After disaster: A Guide for Parents and Teachers.

http://www.redcross.org
There are also brochures available from your local American Red Cross chapter.

- Dr. Maria Petrosino -