Study Reveals Link Between Disaster Preparedness Knowledge and Mental Health in Higher Education
A recent study by Adelphi University researchers Renée Rawcliffe and Dr. Beverly Araujo Dawson, in collaboration with CUNY, investigated the relationship between disaster preparedness knowledge, disaster-related stress, and post-disaster depression among students, faculty, and staff in higher education. Analyzing survey results from over 1,500 participants collected during the spring and summer of 2020, the study assessed stressors related to both Hurricane Sandy and COVID-19. Participants also provided feedback on their knowledge of various COVID-19 preparedness measures, including diagnosis, safety, treatment information, and access to essential services. The findings indicated that over 65% of participants experienced stress from the cumulative impact of both disasters, leading to a higher prevalence of depression than experiencing either event alone. Notably, students exhibited significantly higher depressive symptoms and less knowledge about preparedness measures compared to faculty and staff. The res...