Pilot study of the acute psychological and health impacts of hurricane Irma in UF/IFAS extension workers

Dr. Grattan examined 36 IFAS Extension Agents to explore Hurricane Irma’s impact on health-related quality of life 6 to 8 weeks and at 1-year post disaster. Findings demonstrate that hurricane impact (exposure high versus low) predicted depression and PTSD. All participants obtained scores within the high average to very superior range on the Symbol Digits Modalities Test. Greater Hurricane Impact (home+work) was associated with elevated Depression, PTSD sx, Medical Symptoms 6- 10 weeks post hurricane (controlling for age and prior hurricane exposure).