Psychological Health:
AVital Component of Katrina Recovery

On behalf of all Louisiana psychologists, LPA extends its condolences to those who have suffered or continue to suffer at the hands of Hurricane Katrina.  We are very concerned about the immediate care and the long term psychological welfare of survivors.  As the immediate shock of the disaster begins to fade, survivors and family members will begin the process of reestablishing the matrix of their lives, not without sadness but with resilience and determination.  With appropriate support and assistance, most will thrive.  For those who develop emotional reactions that do not improve, Louisiana psychologists are available to provide professional mental health services.

The American Psychological Association Practice Organization has information on its website about the psychological response to disaster, what to expect, and how to optimize recovery; go to www.apapractice.org/apo/drn_hurr.html#.  For those seeking mental health care, be aware that LPA does not make direct referrals to psychologists.  However a searchable database is available on this website; go to Find a Psychologist.