Aircraft collision on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C.

Catastrophic disasters, such as the aircraft collsion on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., cause extreme disruption and can be distressful for individuals, families, and communities. Actions that promote the five essential elements of Psychological First Aid (safety, calming, connectedness, efficacy, and hope) can reduce individual distress and foster community sustainment through this event, as well as other disasters.  Members of the community can help reduce adversity and chronic stressors by helping friends and neighbors impacted by this event. Please click HERE for easy-to-use education fact sheets with recommended actions to protect the mental health and well-being of individuals and communities impacted by the plane crash.