The Role of Public Health in Mental and Behavioral Health in Children and Families Following Disasters

• 2009

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• Randal Beaton; Shirley Murphy; J. Brian Houston; Gilbert Reyes; Suzette Bramwell; Michelle McDaniel
PMID: 19823144DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/phh.0b013e3181a8c307

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About

This article explores the impact of mass disasters and terrorist attacks on the mental and behavioral health of children and youth. It identifies the key roles of public health agencies in promoting resilience and reducing mental health risks for children and families post-disaster. Through a review of research literature, the authors highlight the vulnerabilities and lasting burdens faced by children after such events. Public health organizations are crucial in prevention and intervention, including coordination with various agencies, advocacy for community resilience, education, training, policy formulation, and research. Overall, the article emphasizes the importance of public health efforts in mitigating adverse mental health outcomes in children following disasters.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Everyday Emergency; Natural Disasters; Violence

Audiences: Behavioral Health Professionals; Public Health Professionals

Emergency Management Stages: Response; Recovery; Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Collection: Disaster Research Literature Review

Keywords: Adolescent Behavior; Mental Disorders; Child Behavior; Disasters; Mental Health; Public Health; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic; Adolescent; Family Health; Resilience, Psychological

Institutions: University of Washington; University of Oklahoma; Fielding Graduate University; Seattle Children's Hospital; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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