Emotional Health and the Flu

During a severe flu season or a flu pandemic, the focus should be on preparation and vaccination.

State and local governments should seek to minimize public anxiety and encourage healthy preparation for a flu pandemic. Vaccination is still the best protection against contracting the flu.

The following resources will help communities, schools and individuals prepare for a severe flu season or a flu pandemic.

Emotional Health Resources Related to Flu and Pandemics

Mental Health and Behavioral Guidelines for Response to a Pandemic Flu Outbreak [PDF – 173 KB] from the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (CSTS)

Emotional Health Resources for Parents and Schools

Pandemic Flu Fact Sheet -  A Parents’ Guide to Helping Families Cope with a Pandemic Flu [PDF- 368 KB] from the National Child Pandemic Stress Network

Guidelines for Responding to the Death of a Student or School Staff [PDF – 1586KB] from the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

At the Hospital: Helping My Child Cope [PDF 117 – KB] from the National Child Pandemic Stress Network

At the Hospital: Helping My Teen Cope [PDF 95 – KB] from the National Child Pandemic Stress Network

Emotional Health Grief Resources

How to Deal With Grief resource list from SAMHSA

Helping Children and Adolescents Deal with Grief [PDF – 166KB] from the University of South Dakota – Disaster Mental Health Institute