

The Lessons of Katrina: Coping With the Next Crisis
13 snips Aug 29, 2025
Dr. Stefan Schulenberg, a clinical psychologist and director at the Disaster Mental Health Institute, shares profound insights on the long-lasting psychological effects of Hurricane Katrina. He delves into how trauma lingers and shapes resilience in the face of future disasters. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of community support, personal purpose, and proactive preparation for crises. Schulenberg highlights emotional complexities tied to traumatic anniversaries and shares inspiring stories of individuals who find meaning amid adversity. His expertise offers crucial lessons for coping with inevitable challenges ahead.
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Charity Hospital Evacuation
- Sanjay Gupta recounts being inside Charity Hospital during Katrina, evacuating critically ill patients by boat and ramp.
- He recalls doctors manually ventilating patients and two dying on the ramp, a memory that shaped him deeply.
Psychological Toll Outlasts The Storm
- Katrina revealed that disasters cause long-lasting psychological wounds beyond physical damage.
- Stefan Schulenberg built his career studying how trauma lingers and how communities heal.
Why We Crave Answers
- People seek explanations after disasters to restore a shattered worldview and reduce distress.
- Blame helps discharge pain but often doesn't aid long-term coping, says Stefan Schulenberg.