Emotional sequelae of disasters: a primary care physician's guide

Disasters are a common cause of psychological trauma and distress, especially for women victims, who are more likely to develop several types of psychological problems. This paper examines the important role of the primary care physician in addressing the emotional and psychological needs of disaster victims. The phases of a disaster are discussed, as are common disaster-related somatic complaints. The paper then outlines a brief intervention for use with disaster victims that can be performed in a primary care physician's office, addresses appropriate patient referral, and outlines the mental health resources commonly available after a disaster.