Coping with Disaster
Tips for Adults
A disaster of any size will cause unusual stress in people who have been directly and indirectly impacted by it. Each person will react differently and a range of responses to a disaster are normal and to be expected. Emotional responses to disasters can appear immediately or sometimes months later. The terrorist attacks in New York and Washington have had a profound impact on all Americans nationwide. Understanding what you’re feeling and taking positive steps can help you cope with this disaster. Here are some common responses:
Responses to Disaster
Most of these reactions will decrease as time passes and you focus attention on daily activities. Because everyone experiences stress differently, don’t compare your progress with others around you or judge other people’s reactions and emotions.
What You Can Do
The National Mental Health Association has several additional resources available to help you and others cope with the disaster, including Time for Reassurance, Talking with Kids, and fact sheets on post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, coping with loss and other topics. To obtain this information, go to or call our toll-free line 800-969-NMHA (6642).
© 2001 National Mental Health Association