Publications on Mental Health & Disaster Issues

For Responders:

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• A Guide to Managing Stress in Crisis Response Professions [HTML]
  This guide provides a framework for stress management strategies for crisis response workers and managers.
• Communicating in a Crisis: Risk Communications Guidelines for Public Officials [HTML]
  This brief primer provides skills and techniques for clear, effective crisis communications and information dissemination to the public and media in emergency situations.
• Developing Cultural Competence in Disaster Mental Health Programs [HTML]
  This guide helps disaster mental health providers and workers meet the unique cultural needs of individuals and communities affected by a disaster.
• Disaster Counseling [HTML]
  This resource is filled with nuts-and-bolts suggestions for disaster workers who are assisting disaster survivors.
• Disaster Mental Health: Crisis Counseling Programs for the Rural Community [HTML]
  This guide is a resource for those who play a role in providing crisis counseling services after a disaster in a rural area.
• Field Manual for Mental Health and Human Service Workers in Major Disasters [HTML]
  This pocket reference guide provides specific and practical suggestions for mental health workers and other human service providers who assist survivors following a disaster.
• Managing Stress: Tips for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers [PDF]
  This brochure provides an overview of the signs of stress and strategies for managing and alleviating stress.
• Mental Health All-Hazards Disaster Planning Guidance [HTML]
  This guide helps identify disease outbreaks, integrate physical and mental health responses, and conduct epidemiological surveillance.
• Psychological First Aid for First Responders [PDF]
  This brochure provides information on promoting a safe and calm environment for people during and after a disaster.
• Psychosocial Issues for Children and Families in Disasters: A Guide for the Primary Care Physician [HTML]
  This manual assists primary health care providers to better prepare, assess, and treat children and their families in the event of a disaster.
• Tips for Managing and Preventing Stress: A Guide for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers [HTML | PDF]
  This fact sheet provides a framework for workers and organizations to anticipate stressors and shape responses.
• Tips for First Responders: Possible Alcohol and Substance Abuse Indicators [HTML | PDF]
  This fact sheet provides warning signs associated with alcohol and drug addiction and other physical and mental disorders.