NCJ Number
122404
Date Published
1978
Length
40 pages
Annotation
This manual is designed to provide human service workers with the essential information they will need as they help others who have experienced a large-scale natural disaster.
Abstract
The guidelines emphasize the needs to recognize that the people being helped are mainly normal, to avoid using mental health labels, to be innovative in offering help, and to fit the program into the community. Specific instructions explain the confidentiality and privacy considerations involved in interviewing, crisis intervention procedures, listening techniques, the psychological reactions to a disaster, and methods of referring individuals and families. Guidelines are also given for helping special risk groups, including people in different age groups, socioeconomic classes, and cultural and racial groups, as well as institutionalized persons and persons requiring emergency medical care. Symptoms and management of stress and burnout among emergency personnel are also discussed. Checklists, client information form, and list of governmental and nongovernmental disaster relief agencies.