Coping with Traumatic Events: NIH Resources

July 12, 2013

Several deadly natural disasters, accidents, and incidents of violence occurred in United States in the past year, all shocking and saddening. Partially because of this, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has updated their web site with information on coping with traumatic events.

People respond to crisis, strong images, and traumatic stress differently. Depending on a person’s life events or background, images on the news may bring back pain or trauma from their past. Information on anxiety disorders, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is included on the NIH site, along with details for finding more resources on dealing with these issues.

Children are especially susceptible to stress and traumatic images from violence or disasters. Emergency responders may unwittingly bring home stories or personal stress that can affect their children. Children may see images of hurricane destruction on TV and worry their home is next. NIH provides guides to parents, community members, and rescue workers for talking with children and adolescents about these topics.

Visit the NIH web page for coping with traumatic events at www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/coping-with-traumatic-events/index.shtml. Find information about the National Volunteer Fire Council’s Member Assistance Program at www.nvfc.org/hot-topics/member-assistance-program.

Source: National Institutes of Health