I’ve written several times in the past about the growing mental health crisis in the hurricane affected Gulf region. Not only are the level of depression, PTSD, and other disorders at significantly higher levels due to the disaster, but there is a significant shortage of professionals to deliver services to all those in need.

About 80 percent of local psychiatrists have left town, according to one study they cited. A survey taken weeks after Katrina showed that nearly half the people interviewed for the study probably needed psychiatric help.

In response to this, late last week FEMA awarded a large grant to Lousiana for mental health treatment. It is the secnod largest grant for this purpose next to the one awaarded to New York for the 9/11 attacks. The article also briefly mentions the stigma associated with psychological treatment that may prevent some people from utilizing services. Hopefully the significant of the events can inspire people to look beyond any fear of seeking help, and that this money can help to resolve a serious crisis.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 22 Aug 2006
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.