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A Message from Director

Establish the Disaster Psychology Division in near future

A Message from Director

 Dr. Hamid Reza Khankeh

Natural disasters include such events as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires and tsunamis. Often these events are unexpected, sudden and overwhelming. Even when people not hurt physically, disasters can take a serious emotional toll. Normal reactions include intense, unpredictable feelings; flashbacks; trouble concentrating or making decisions; disrupted eating and sleeping patterns; emotional upsets on anniversaries or other reminders; strained personal relationships; and physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea or chest pain.

The Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies of University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR) is proud to establish the Disaster Psychology Division in near future. This division is designed for those who wish to provide effective mental health and psychosocial services to individuals and communities in Iran who are affected by traumatic events and natural disasters. Our plan is recognized for “First Fellowship Program” by both the Crisis Intervention Committee of Iranian Psychological Association & Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, and is the first Internationals program of its kind in the nation. Why is it important to keep Disaster Psychology Division on USWRs Agenda?

 Because trauma related to disaster has been implicated as a risk factor in many psychological disorders

 Because natural disasters and man-made crises are actively on the national agenda

 Because the fellowship about disaster is still not in psychologys mainstream, and our convention programs can help to put it there

 Because the wisdom of psychologys disaster experts can be better utilized by our profession and by the public

A Few Program Highlights

 We provide foundational skills in disaster psychology combined with the specific skills needed to work in the field of disaster and emergency globally

 Our division includes a vast array of Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies as well as international fellowships that are central to our training model of combining theory and practice.

 Our PhD students and faculty work together interdisciplinary creating a collaborative learning environment that fosters professional development

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