treeline

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 can I help?

As a recognized subject matter expert and master trainer, I assist 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.

Currently, I work with the Institute for Disaster Mental Health at SUNY New Paltz (http://www.newpaltz.edu/idmh/index.html). We continue 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. Check the Schedule page for a list of courses being offered currently.

I am available to talk to you or your group about issues related to disaster mental health:

  • The psychological effects of disaster on survivors
  • The psychological effects of working on a disaster response
  • Psychological first aid and other interventions in the immediate aftermath of disaster
  • The role of the American Red Cross in disaster

Would you like to learn more?

If you are interested in becoming a disaster mental health volunteer, the Greater Rochester American Red Cross offers a one-day training. Contact Christine Steerman steerman@rochester.rr.com or the Greater Rochester chapter http://www.rochesterredcross.org or 585-241-4400 for more information.