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Children experience psychological impact from Hurricane Katrina Hurricane Katrina caused extensive loss and devastation, and an enormous economic impact on the entire nation.   Health care professionals, parents and teachers are  faced with the difficult challenge of discussing natural disasters. It’s important to allow opportunities for children to talk about these events. While there is no right or wrong way to talk about these issues, the following tips may be helpful: Many children may not want to think about what’s happening outside of their own neighborhoods. They may just want to be children and play with friends. However, if they do express concern about Hurricane Katrina and the people affected by it, reassure them that it’s OK to ask questions. They may fear a similar disaster could happen in their own neighborhood or with the next passing rainstorm. Acknowledge and validate the child’s thoughts, feelings and reactions. Try to maintain an open and supportive environment, but don’t force kids to talk about things until they’re ready. Be prepared to repeat simple explanations and information several times and use developmentally appropriate words and concepts children can understand. Do not allow children to watch too much television with frightening images. Parents may need to watch news reports after children are asleep. The repetition of these scenes can be confusing and disturbing to people of all ages. Let children know that lots of people are helping the affected families. Teach them that people are there to help when scary things happen. Use this opportunity to teach the importance of generosity. Children who have experienced trauma or losses in the past may be especially vulnerable to hearing or seeing news about this recent event.   Children who develop sleep problems, anxiety, depression or a preoccupation with questions or concerns may need extra support and attention. If symptoms persist, talk to a trained and qualified mental health professional.   Topics like this are discussed monthly in the peer supervision group, Promoting Happy and Healthy Youth, which meets the third Tuesday of each month in Room 377 of Rutledge Tower. Health care professionals are welcome to join the group. Support is provided by the Maternal and Child Health Bureau with breakfast provided by Shire Pharmaceuticals. Contact spratte@musc.edu or maciasm@musc.edu for information. Friday, Sept. 23, 2005 Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to petersnd@musc.edu or catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Community Press at 849-1778.