Responding to workplace terrorism: Applying military models of behavioral health and public health response

The behavioral health response to the September 11th, 2001 attack at the Pentagon illustrates the principles of a public health approach to the emotional and behavioral consequences of terrorism. This model applies public health principles, and consultation. It addresses resiliency, illness, distress, and risk behaviors to maximize return to health and work productivity. In this approach, multidisciplinary teams conduct a program of health surveillance, health education and informational briefings at sites within the workplace and to key leaders. The composition of these teams would differ in other civilian settings and should include an integrated response from security, employee assistance, human resources, communications, and leadership. However, the principles of the approach would remain consistent: identify individuals and populations at high risk for post-attack distress reactions or illness, integrate family support into workplace support, promote individual and community resilience, and refer individuals as necessary for further assessment and treatment.