Recent events in the Gulf Coast region have left countless families displaced and without basic resources. While the stress of this situation is difficult for all affected, those with mental health conditions have a uniquely challenging journey ahead, particularly if they have experienced disruptions in treatment.

• Get them back on their medications if med availability became a problem during the crisis.

• Get them back on the same diet, if possible (although crawdads may be a bit harder to get here!)

• Many people with autism need an isolated place to be. Many are overwhelmed with people. If possible, locate a quiet "safe place" for the child to be alone. Show the child specifically where that place is and the procedure needed to allow use of the "safe place".

• Behavior may be young child behavior, very likely the child will have regression immediately or after a new setting is found. Think about what helped them settle down at other times, especially when they were younger, i.e. behavior redirection, positive behavior reinforcement, a comfort item, structure, etc.

• Check to see if they had glasses or other types of visual support.

• Do not attempt to stop self-stimulating behavior. It maybe the very thing that is helping them remain un-aggressive, and helping them cope with the problems. (You may have to suggest appropriate places for them to use, however, depending on what the behavior is (Noise, etc.)

• Be aware of the many new people they see and the new environment in which they are seeing those they know. Those who have face-blindness will be having major hurdles in crowds. (Prosopagnosia will be a BIG deal!)

• Reach out to other survivors, and those who offer support or help.

• If a child lost an element (blanket, toy, etc.) that provided comfort, help them find another to replace it. This is NOT the time to wean away from a comfort item.

• Ask for 5 things that would make their child's life easier. (This will be a very specific list and may include items that the child uses to stem, i.e. a favorite toy, a favorite video, a soft blanket, rice-crispie bars and a mini-tramp, a night light, a pencil, etc.) These children are all so individual, these details could make all the difference in providing appropriate and helpful care for the child and the parents.

• Due to the incredible differences in these kids, a list such as the one which follows would help the professionals deal with each child as needed. If possible a parent or family member should be asked to help the child complete the list.

To learn more about the characteristics of a person with autism, visit this site: http://mkdowney.com/characteristics.html

In response to the obstacles faced by the hurricane survivors, CHADD has compiled a list of strategies and resources relevant to the AD/HD community. Many who have autism may share many of the same challenges as those having Attention Deficit Disorders. (Be aware that those with autism may experience them in a more intense way.)

• Set reasonable expectations. Temporary drops in school performance as the child adjusts can be quite common.

• Know your child’s rights and work with the school to design a suitable education plan.

• Develop routines. Predictability and structure have always been important for children with AD/HD, but can be particularly crucial to re-establishing a sense of security in their new surroundings. So, as much as possible try to restore some structure as soon as possible.

• Ask for help. Recovering from a traumatic event is a process that takes time. Reach out to your community for helpful resources.

• Participate in memorials, engage in calming activities, and be attentive to your physical well-being.

• Talk to someone. Find a support system. This may be friends, family, church, and/or local support groups. Many individuals with AD/HD are susceptible to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc. Having an outlet for emotions is important to maintaining a positive outlook.

• Re-establish a treatment plan. Look for doctors or mental health services in your area or contact a relief organization. For health insurance, you can also look to public assistance like Medicaid.

• Arrange a new schedule. Adults with AD/HD also benefit from structure. Look to resume a practical schedule that can help reintroduce a sense of normalcy.

• Resources for finding employment and other necessities can be found below.

• For Fort Worth/Dallas Texas area resources: http://mkdowney.com/randl.html
• The Autism Society of Greater Tarrant County has a Resource Packet for those needing assistance regarding autism.
  October 8th, 2005—ASGTC 2nd annual Open House at the Child Study Center 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
  ASGTC September newsletter more info about Katrina and disaster preparedness for families.

• Support groups relating directly to those with disabilities: http://mkdowney.com/support.html
• In Tarrant County Texas refer people with mental retardation or autism to MHMRTC Intake number: is 817-569-4141 They are taking calls as well as walk-in crisis referrals. Currently providing respite service, service coordination, and community supports for those with autism and their families.
• In the Dallas/Fort Worth area contact Melissa Bartley (817-228-7416) cookie.1199@lwol.com for long term or short term respite. Registered as a care facility, serving children and adults with autism, and other developmental and physical disabilities. Melissa and her husband are Home Missionaries for special needs ministry and live in Hurst, Texas. She charges per hour for short shifts and will decide according to needs for long shifts. She has been involved in Katrina relief and their home is registered for residential services and also provides services through local agencies.
• Tarrant County Texas refer people with mental retardation or autism to MHMRTC Intake number: is 817-569-4141 They are taking calls as well as walk-in crisis referrals. Currently providing respite service, service coordination, and community supports for those with autism and their families.
• Unlocking Autism has funding to help with the meds & can Fed Ex sensory items. www.unlockingautism.org They also have frequent flyer miles available if they would want to relocate closer to family.
• The Connections Center in Houston also offered free child care for a limited number of kids. http://www.connectionscenter.com/