SAMHSA_Short_Report_2011.pdf (163.1 KiB, 233 hits)

In the wake of the unprecedented tornadoes that have occurred this month throughout the southeastern United States, it is important to recognize the impact on children and families of trauma caused by natural disasters and the link to future problems with alcohol, substance abuse and other behavioral health problems.

 

SAMHSA has recently published a new brief entitled Helping Children and Youth Who have Experienced Traumatic Events. A copy is attached above as SAMHSA Short Report.  It was released in preparation for National Child Mental Health Day which will be observed on May 3rd, 2011.

Substance abuse professionals must be aware of the impact that trauma may have on children and the future consequences.     Thirty-seven percent of youth over 11 years of age who experience only mild trauma used alcohol, tobacco or marijuana.  This number increases to one-half for adolescents who have experienced 3 or more traumatic events.