Psychological Effects of Disasters on Children: Hurricane Katrina and Child Survivors in New Orleans

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina fell on the Gulf Coast, resulting in unprecedented, long-term mental health needs of hurricane survivors. Child survivors are especially vulnerable following a disaster; it is therefore crucial that mental health providers understand and utilize effective interventions to address the psychological impacts of disasters on children. This article examines the psychological impacts of disasters on child survivors, exploring factors that increase a child's vulnerability to psychological distress and presenting an evidence-based intervention for child survivors of Hurricane Katrina. The author uses case examples from a New Orleans agency that serves survivors of Hurricane Katrina.