ABSTRACT
Children, adolescents, and adults are affected by natural disasters and their after effects–loss of limb or life, as well as of shelter, possessions, safety and security, and financial certainty; collateral damage; debilitating disease; and injury. Survivors experience various levels of stress that may later manifest in distinct behavioral, emotional, and social readjustment problems. Emotional reactions include temporary feelings of shock, fear, anxiety, grief, anger, resentment, guilt, shame, helplessness, hopelessness, emotional numbness, uncontrollable emotions, unresolved issues from past losses or trauma, lack of interest and satisfaction in daily activities, or feelings of isolation and loneliness. Children and adolescents respond with a wide range of emotional, physical, and cognitive reactions, depending on their previous life experiences, their support systems, and the nature and the intensity of the incident. Adolescents can have much difficulty coping with death. They are least likely to accept the cessation of life.
