Resilient Recovery Project

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Mission

The Resilient Recovery Project addresses mental health needs in collaboration with the American Red Cross and University of Louisville.

This research project promotes the well-being of families post tornadoes in Western Kentucky.

On December 10-11, 2021, tornados ripped through communities in Western Kentucky claiming dozens of lives, destroying hundreds of homes and leaving families and communities forever impacted. Communities especially in the Mayfield and Dawson Springs area are continuing the process of rebuilding and recovery. 

Why is emotional health care important after a tornado?

A recent survey of school personnel in W. KY indicated:

  • More than 50% said they and/or friends or family were affected by the tornado,
  • 20% report continuing emotional impact and
  • 35% have ongoing storm anxiety

The trauma of experiencing a tornado can have long-term effects on a person’s mental health. People who have experienced a tornado may experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) such as flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, anxiety and depression.

Mental health care can help: 

  • Cope with the trauma and aftermath of a tornado
  • Provide them with the tools to manage their symptoms
  • Can also help people process their emotions and
  • Provide them with a safe space to talk about their experiences.

Introduction to American Red Cross grant goals and project

Goals:

Outreach and Services

  • Engaging and connecting to immediate and/or long-term mental health services to vulnerable populations in Western Kentucky affected by the December tornados

Capacity Building

  • Building the capacity of local mental health delivery systems in these communities with clinical training and suicide prevention

Education

  • Training of professionals to increase skills in delivering supportive services to those suffering mental health distress. Supports for 1st responders and caregivers.

Network Building

  • Building network of provider agencies to allow for development of additional capacity in these communities and help with referral systems.  

Kent School of Social Work and Family Science Project Team

Dr. Bibhuti Sar, Principal Investigator

Emily Watts, MSSW, Research Manager II

Megan Millar, Project Assistant

Partners 

Four Rivers Behavioral Health, Paducah, KY

KY STEPs LLC, Bowling Green, KY

Pennyroyal Center