Identifying the Intersection of Disaster Vulnerability and Mental Health Service Shortage in New York City

Purpose: Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of severe weather events in many parts of the world, including the U.S. Northeast. Past storms in this region have demonstrated the need for ongoing... [ view full abstract ]

Purpose: Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of severe weather events in many parts of the world, including the U.S. Northeast. Past storms in this region have demonstrated the need for ongoing public health planning, disaster preparedness, and building community resilience. Disasters are known to induce, exacerbate, and potentially prolong mental health conditions, namely post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. This presentation will examine the need to target disaster preparedness efforts towards communities that are under-served for mental health services and are more physically vulnerable to disaster.
Methods: This research utilizes Esri ArcGIS 10.3, Census data, and healthcare services data to examine the following in New York City: 1) the geographic distribution of mental health service shortage areas, (2) the geographic distribution of storm surge and flood risk, (3) the 'intersection' of mental health services shortage and storm surge/flood risk areas, and (4) the distribution of risk factors for PTSD and depression. Statistical pairwise comparisons are conducted in SAS 9.4 and will demonstrate any differences in risk factors for PTSD and depression between 'intersection' areas and other NYC regions.
Conclusion: Research is ongoing. To date, findings show that 1.15 million individuals live in 'intersection' areas wherein neighborhoods are vulnerable to flood/storm surge and exhibit a mental health service shortage. Notable, and statistically significant, demographic disparities are also present, with Latinos (p<0.0001, Chi square) and those living below the federal poverty level (p<.0001, Chi square) being more likely to live in intersection regions. This research utilizes a geographic lens to inform ongoing research in disaster preparedness, health service planning, and health disparities. Preliminary findings suggest an opportunity to further integrate mental health services and policy as part of disaster preparedness initiatives. Doing so could lead to improved resilience within vulnerable and underserved communities.