University Relations
July 28, 2008 Communique
Conference explores disaster mental health related to pandemic flu
Mental health needs during a pandemic flu disaster was the subject of a July 7-10 conference presented by the UCCS Trauma, Health and Hazards Center in cooperation with the Colorado Department of Human Services and US Northern Command.
“Our nation requires a robust and cooperative planning and response system that addresses the mental health needs consequent to traumatic disasters,” Charles “Chip” Benight, director, Trauma Health and Hazards Center, said. “This conference provided a forum for bridging the gap between responders and research scientists.”
The conference provided workshops and speakers in the disaster behavioral health field with experts from civilian and military systems. The conference culminated in a simulated outbreak exercise where conference attendees worked together to develop a response.
Conference attendees represented 19 states and three nations.