APA Expert Opinion
An APA expert answers common questions about mental illness and emotional trauma following disasters

This month's expert: Anthony T. Ng, M.D., chair of the APA Committee on the Psychiatric Dimensions of Disaster

First Katrina, then Rita- I don’t think I can mentally handle another hurricane. Should I be concerned about the impact of these disasters on my mental health?

In the wake of such devastation, thousands of people have been left without adequate shelter, food, water and other essentials. In addition, many people have lost loved ones or are still trying to locate missing relatives and friends. A tragedy like this can have an immense impact on a person’s psychological health.

If you feel anxious, angry or depressed, you are not alone. Initial feelings of anxiety and depression following a traumatic event are natural and common. While most people who experience trauma do not develop psychiatric conditions in the long term, studies have shown that the more severe the disaster, the greater the likelihood of developing a mental distress.

Keep informed about new information and developments, but avoid overexposure to news stories on the events. Talk to friends, family or colleagues who likely are experiencing the same feelings.

If these symptoms continue, even after order has been restored, or if these feelings begin to overwhelm you, seek the advice of a psychiatrist or other qualified mental health professional in your area.

How can I help my child cope with storm related disasters?

Keep an open dialogue with them regarding their fears of danger and the disaster. Let them know that, in time, the tragedy will pass. Don’t minimize the danger, but talk about your ability to cope with tragedy and get through the ordeal. However, if kids are having excessive or ongoing difficulties, such as increased school problems, sleeping difficulties or frequent temper tantrums, further evaluation may be needed. Talk to your child’s teacher and/or family doctor as well. If difficulties persist, consider seeking a referral to see a psychiatrist or other qualified mental health professional.

I have noticed a lot of confusing stories in the media this past summer regarding mental health. Is there a medical basis for mental illness?

Psychiatric illnesses, like bipolar disorder, depression and even post-traumatic stress disorder, do produce some very specific biological changes in bodily functioning. In addition to effecting sleep, energy and appetite, depression actually alters the way the immune system operates, making it more difficult for people to fight off infections.

Also, there is clear evidence of genetic factors in mental illnesses. For example, if you have one parent with depression, you have a 25% chance of having the illness. If you have two parents with depression, your risk increases to 75%. We also have clear evidence from research using the latest neuroimaging techniques that psychiatric illnesses are associated with structural and functional differences in the brain.

Can mental illnesses be cured?

Some mental illness, like mild depression, may require short-term care, either through talk therapy, medication or a combination of both. But, just like many other medical illnesses, there are certain mental disorders that are chronic, lifelong conditions requiring continued care and monitoring by a trained professional. What is most important to know is that mental illnesses are real and very treatable. Speak with your doctor about an individualized treatment plan.

If I feel that I or a loved one might be showing symptoms of a mental disorder, what should I do?

The most important thing is to get a thorough medical exam by a physician. Whether the symptoms you are experiencing may be the result of a thyroid condition or a case of moderate depression, either a psychiatrist or your family doctor will be able to assess your overall physical and emotional health and to offer a proper diagnosis. Your family doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist or other trained mental health professional. You can locate a psychiatrist in your area by clicking here.

I noticed the information about Bipolar Disorder Awareness Day? What exactly is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder, or manic depression, is a serious but treatable disorder that causes extreme shifts in a person’s mood, energy and ability to function. The symptoms of bipolar disorder can result in damaged relationships, difficulty in working or going to school and even suicide. There are generally periods of normal emotional states as well, but left untreated, people with bipolar disorder continue to experience these shifts in mood.

Bipolar disorder is very treatable. Because bipolar disorder is a recurrent illness, long-term preventive treatment is strongly recommended. Medication alone or a combination of psychotherapy and medication is optimal for managing the disorder over time. Medications known as “mood stabilizers” are usually prescribed to help control bipolar disorder. In most cases, bipolar disorder is much better controlled if treatment is continuous.

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