Supplemental Research Bulletin: Mental Health Issues and Conditions in Children and Youth Exposed to Human-caused Disasters

After exposure to oil spills, radiation disasters, incidents of mass violence, and terrorist attacks, children and youth may experience a variety of adverse mental health and substance use-related consequences. While symptoms of disorders decrease over time for most children and youth, for some, the effects will be more intense and will last longer, and may require therapeutic intervention.

This edition of the Supplemental Research Bulletin focuses on how human-caused disasters may affect children and youth. The issue also discusses risk and protective factors, as well as the possible effects of indirect disaster exposure. A sampling of approaches and interventions to support children in the aftermath of disasters is also included.