Pandemic Influenza: The Behavioral Health Effects
The Ohio Department of Health defines pandemic influenza as the international circulation of a new influenza strain for which most of the world's population has no immunity. There were three pandemics in the 20th century. These pandemics lasted about a year during which time people built antibodies to destroy the virus.
A severe pandemic could change the patterns of daily life for some time and behavioral health symptoms could be shared by large portions of the population. Disorders of mood, cognition and behavior (fear, anxiety, panic and grief) will be among the common findings in populations exposed, or thought to be exposed. Behavioral health (alcohol, drug and mental health) is a vital component of a coordinated response to a potential pandemic.
What are the behavioral health effects?
To increase understanding of the behavioral health effects of a possible pandemic influenza, the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities and the Ohio Department of Mental Health have created two fact sheets. The first fact sheet provides general information about preparation, coping skills, possible behavioral health symptoms and online resources for more information. The second fact sheet is targeted to providers of behavioral health services and details issues that providers might encounter if a pandemic occurs. It also focuses on the importance of an appropriate behavioral health response in diminishing the anxiety of pandemic influenza.
Behavioral Health Tips on How to Prepare
Diminishing the Anxiety of Pandemic Influenza
Online resources
National Pandemic Flu Web site
Ohio Pandemic Flu Web site
World Health Organization
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
American Psychiatric Association
American Psychological Association
American Red Cross
Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities
Ohio Citizen Corps
Ohio Council of Behavioral Healthcare Providers
Ohio Counseling Association
Ohio Department of Agriculture
Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services
Ohio Department of Education
Ohio Department of Health
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Ohio Department of Public Safety
Ohio Emergency Management Agency
Ohio Hospital Association
Ohio Psychiatric Association
Ohio Psychological Association
Ohio Resource Network for Safe and Drug Free Schools & Communities
Ohio School Psychologists Association