Helping children cope with trauma

Once again our nation is suffering from damage and loss caused by a hurricane. For many of us, we are too far away to adequately assist those individuals directly affected by Hurricane Gustav. For many of us, all we can do is pray that God provides the victims with comfort, peace, strength and security. 

But there are individuals who can directly help the victims, and if you are one of those individuals, I encourage you to do what you believe that you are called to do. I am especially hopeful that the young victims of this tragedy are supported during this difficult time. 

Because of the magnitude of this event, many children will need appropriate emotional supports to help them survive the trauma caused by the hurricane. I encourage parents and community members to review the following information regarding children and disasters:

• Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters: What Parents Can Do
• Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters: What Community Members Can Do

Both of these links are from the National Institute of Mental Health, and both provide a wealth of information and resources. 

My thoughts and prayers are with all of the individuals affected by Hurricane Gustav.