Montgomery – Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation Commissioner Kathy Sawyer and Associate Commissioner for Mental Illness Kimberly Ingram are urging victims of the recent tornado in Alabama to seek mental health treatment.  DMH/MR officials encourage families impacted by the natural disaster to be particularly watchful for signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

“Natural disaster recovery efforts can be a very emotionally draining time,” Sawyer said.  “Many individuals and families have lost a great deal of personally meaningful and sentimental items, as well as having sustained property damage and loss of valuables.  Also, when fatalities result from natural disasters, grief and depression are important mental health issues."

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop following a terrifying event.   Once referred to as “shell shock,” war veterans initially brought PTSD to public attention.  However, it can result from any number of traumatic incidents including serious accidents (like car or train wrecks), natural disasters, or violent personal attacks. The event that triggers PTSD may be something experienced directly or it could be something witnessed.

PTSD can result in individuals repeatedly reliving the trauma in the form of nightmares and disturbing recollections during the day. Other symptoms may include sleep problems, depression, feelings of detachment, or being easily startled. PTSD may also result in a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, lack of affection, irritability, aggressive behavior, avoidance of certain situations and/or places, and possibly violence.

Sawyer and Ingram both noted that counseling with a mental health professional is the first step to recovery from PTSD.  “I urge the tornado victims and their families to seek treatment if you have been experiencing any symptoms of PTSD,” Ingram said.  “This potentially debilitating condition is easily and effectively treated.”

RESOURCES

Call the DMH/MR Bureau of Mental Illness Community Programs at (334) 242-3200 for contact information for your local community mental health center.

Visit the National Institute for Mental Health website to learn more about PTSD at http://www.nimh.nih.gov