APA Blogs
25 Results
Mental Health Effects of the War in Palestine and Israel
- By APA Global Mental Health Caucus Work Group
The war in Palestine and Israel has destroyed and imperiled the lives and the mental and physical health of Palestinians, Israelis, and others in the region. We express deep compassion for all those who are suffering as well as alarm for the future psychological and behavioral consequences that will affect the people caught in this conflict. The magnitude of death, destruction, and violence threatens to destabilize the region and has sent shock waves around the world, affecting many of us in our own communities.
Veterans Benefit from Culturally Competent Care
- By Umar Latif, M.D., FAPA
As a psychiatrist and a proud supporter of those who have served our nation, over the last 15 years I have had the privilege to develop and oversee programs nationally that increase access to psychiatric care for active-duty service members and veterans. In this role, I have come to believe strongly in the need to increase cultural competence for civilian healthcare professionals who provide care to service members, veterans, their families and caregivers.
Caring for Our Families in Difficult Times: Protecting Mental Health and Wellbeing During Terrorism, War, and other Disasters
- By Joshua Morganstein, M.D.
Disasters, like terrorism and war, are extremely disruptive and stressful events. The current conflict in the Middle East has impacted communities around the world, including those whose family members are directly involved. In addition, many people experienced increased discrimination in their home country following these events. Some people feel worried about how these disasters impact civil and political discourse or may alter events in the world.
Maui Wildfire Response: Resources for Mental Health Clinicians Who Are Helping
In the aftermath of the dreadful wildfires in Maui, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Committee on Psychiatric Dimensions of Disaster has prepared the following list of resources for mental health clinicians. These resources are fully vetted by physicians and are free to all who may need them.
Maternal Mental Health: A Brief Look at the Impact of Birth Trauma
For some women, childbirth can be a traumatic event often associated with birth complications or a near miss for maternal mortality 1. A traumatic birth involves a perceived or life-threatening series of events that result in severe injury or death of the infant or mother. This traumatic experience increases the risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after birth and can lead to challenges with attachment between the birthing parent and their infant