Safety considerations in sheltering mental and behavioral health clients

Background: The needs of responders and victims during a disaster event are varied and complex. Those staffing general population shelters and special needs shelters are particularly challenged by persons whose specialized needs go above and beyond the general population. Psychological and emotional needs of responders and those who need response are often overlooked or underplayed during disaster planning, creating safety concerns. This discussion will provide an overview of psychological first aid (PSA), discuss the impact of disaster on victims, responders, and volunteers staffing shelters, and address safety concerns associated with these events. It will also articulate the need to include the emotional and psychological needs of victims and responders in all disaster planning. Methods: Florida's Disaster Behavioral Health program (DBH) ascribes to psychological first aid models supported and developed by SAMSHA, the Center of Emergency Preparedness at the University of South Florida, and other accredited and reputable centers. Outcomes: Early intervention and response have demonstrated their efficacy in meeting the emotional and psychological needs of impacted individuals and communities. The key to the Disaster Behavioral Health response is timely and efficient interventions that mitigate the impact of disaster and assist with safely returning the individual and community to functionality. Conclusions: A collective effort from mental health professionals, public health community and its partners is required to create an emotionally and psychologically healthy environment for clients during disaster events. The program has had much success in providing this support.