December 07, 2005

Many Hurricane Katrina Survivors in Deep Mental Distress

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, a significant amount of survivors and residents are suffering with depression, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts. Not only was Katrina one of the worst disasters in U.S. history, but it is leaving some of the worst scars as well:

In a clinical survey of Orleans and Jefferson parishes, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 45 percent of the residents were experiencing "significant distress or dysfunction" and 25 percent had an even "higher degree of dysfunction," said Dori Reissman of the CDC. Nearly half of those interviewed reported feeling isolated, and a quarter believe at least one family member needs counseling. (Washington Post)

Posted by news editor | Filed under: PTSD