Citation

Morganstein JC, Ursano RJ. Front. Psychiatry 2020; 11: e1.

Affiliation

Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Frontiers Media)

DOI

10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00001

PMID

32116830

PMCID

PMC7026686

Abstract

Ecological disasters highlight the importance of understanding natural disasters as they relate to a changing global climate. Such disasters often have a predictable pattern of evolving over time and anticipated psychological and behavioral problems and community disruptions. Various factors enhance transmission of these adverse effects beyond the geographic location of the ecological disaster, with certain populations being particularly vulnerable to these effects. Understanding the range and pattern of these effects can aid in optimizing interventions. The use of evidence-informed interventions can reduce distress, enhance well-being, and improve functioning for affected individuals and communities. Effective preparedness involves an understanding of these factors, incorporation of them at all stages of disaster management, and continuous education and training for disaster planners and responders.

Copyright © 2020 Morganstein and Ursano.

Language: en

Keywords

disaster; early interventions; mental health; trauma; vulnerable populations