Disaster mental health is a rapidly evolving field focused on providing psychological support during the phases of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The Pediatric Pandemic Network has created a specialized curriculum that aims to increase your knowledge and confidence in addressing the mental and behavioral health needs of children impacted by catastrophic events. By participating in this course, you will gain essential skills to support young patients, and also identify areas for further professional development in disaster mental health.
Why Prepare for Pediatric Behavioral Health in Disasters?
Disasters can create significant emotional distress for children and their families, often leading to lasting psychological challenges. According to a 2022 systematic review, nearly 25% of those affected by disasters exhibit clinically significant posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) within six months of their exposure.
By offering evidence-based behavioral health guidance, healthcare providers can help mitigate the effects of catastrophic events on pediatric patients, ensuring better outcomes for children and families.
What You’ll Learn
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Signs and Symptoms: Learn to identify the signs, symptoms, and risk factors for negative mental health outcomes in children following disasters and other catastrophic events.
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Screening and Assessment Tools: Explore effective screening and assessment tools that can be used in both ambulatory and medical home settings to assess symptoms and behaviors in children.
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Interventions: Gain an understanding of short-term and long-term, empirically supported interventions that can be used in the aftermath of a disaster to treat mental health disorders in young patients.
Continuing Education Credit
Continuing Education credit is available for physicians, nurses, psychologists, and social workers.
Enroll Today
Sign up today to increase your expertise and enhance the care you provide to children and families during the most challenging of times.
For more details and to register, please visit Pediatric Behavioral Health in Disasters.