Traumatic events and disasters are an unexpected but not uncommon aspect of our lives. This book describes the field of disaster mental and behavioral health and is directed at fostering resilience and recovery, whilst recognizing that such events lead to mental illness, distress and health risk behaviors, all of which should be planned for and considered in early interventions. Psychological first aid is discussed, as well as the potential role of psychopharmacology and the relevance of culture in the setting of the disaster. This is essential reading for clinicians who might be involved in a mass trauma situation, along with educators and students in the increasing numbers of educational programs relating to the preparation and response to mass trauma and disaster situations. It should be read by policy makers and public health specialists who must understand the impact of disaster on the person and the systems in which we live.

'The chapters on acute stress disorder and what factors may lead to PTSD versus what interventions would minimise its development are very good, with studies evaluating a number of different treatment options. … I would recommend this book to those new to disaster psychiatry and even those with experience in it.'

Source: Doody's

'… affords current practitioners and scholars of disaster psychiatry a chance to check in with the experts and, when the dust is not flying, reflect on crucial concepts and challenges in the field. For readers who are new to disaster psychiatry … it will immerse you in the thick of the field's major issues.'

Source: Journal of Clinical Psychiatry