Adapting to Acute Crisis

Abstract This chapter focuses on the mental health issues associated with crises that arise at the community or societal level, ranging from acts of terrorism to the impact of war on soldiers and civilians, and from the ravages of earthquakes and tornadoes to the very fear of an impending crisis itself. It discusses normal, common reactions to crises; pathologic or unhealthy reactions to crises; trauma and mental health; types of traumatic events; risk factors for mental disorders; and prevention and intervention strategies.