Disaster Mental Health
Anyone can be affected by disaster. Some of us face personal disasters such as house fires; others are impacted by major disasters like floods or tornadoes. As the State Lead for Disaster Mental Health for the New York State American Red Cross, I help chapters and volunteers prepare to assist their communities that have faced disasters, both large and small.
Disaster Mental Health volunteers work with individuals and responders who have been involved in all types of disasters by providing comfort, education and advocacy. The Greater Rochester chapter of the American Red Cross deploys over 60 DMH volunteers who respond to local and national disasters, participate in readiness drills, and are involved in local programs.
How is disaster work different from psychotherapy?
In a disaster setting, people are concerned with their basic needs: food, shelter, clothing, and security. Disaster mental health workers provide psychological first aid and advocacy for the survivors of disaster. They help them prioritize their immediate needs, and connect with their natural support systems. Disaster mental health workers provide comfort and an opportunity for survivors to tell their story.
Disaster mental health workers also work with other disaster response workers, and help them deal with the stresses of providing service to survivors of disaster. We teach and facilitate self-care, communication, and resolution of conflict.
How have I been involved with disaster?
As a recognized subject matter expert and master trainer, I assisted organizations to develop curricula and train professionals in the principles and practice of disaster mental health. In collaboration with Jack Herrmann, MSEd., NCC, formerly of the University of Rochester, I developed and implemented a training program for the New York State Office of Mental Health and Department of Health.
The Institute for Disaster Mental Health at SUNY New Paltz (http://www.newpaltz.edu/idmh/index.html). continues to deliver trainings throughout the state in Disaster Mental Health and Psychological First Aid. The Institute also offers a one-day conference each Spring and develops new training modules. In 2009, I wrote a new module entitled Disaster Mental Health: Assisting Individuals with Mental Health.
I am currently working at the National Headquarters of the American Red Cross as the Senior Associate in Disaster Mental Health. For more information about the Red Cross and the assistance we offer, contact your local chapter.
Would you like to learn more?
If you are interested in becoming a disaster mental health volunteer, contact your local chapter to inquire about Foundations of Disaster Mental Health training. Simply type in your zip code and click on the Chapter Locator button on www.redcross.org to find local resources.