Clinical profile of stress disorders in children affected by the fall of the meteorite in the Chelyabinsk Region

Abstract

Presented are the results from a study conducted using the facilities of consultative volunteer service offered by the department of psychiatry of South Ural state medical university in the period when medical advice was sought by parents of children who have suffered from the fall of the meteorite in the Chelyabinsk region on Feb.15, 2013. The initial clinical symptoms of acute stress reactions are described, especially the specific features of their development. Phenomenology of mental disorders, their syndromic structure are outlined. A clinical example and examples of children’s drawings are provided. The current system of psychological and mental health care in the region is highlighted and conclusions are drawn regarding its effectiveness.