Domestic terrorism with chemical or biological agents: Psychiatric aspects

Objective: This article highlights the mental health consequences of a dome stic terrorist incident involving chemical or biological weapons. Method: T he author reviews the literature on the neuropsychiatric effects of selecte d chemical and biological weapon agents, on the psychological sequelae of m ass disasters, and on approaches to crisis intervention. Results: Disturban ces of behavior, affect, and cognition can result directly from the pharmac ological actions of some chemical and biological weapon agents. In addition , an incident involving these agents can have considerable psychological ef fects on individuals and the community. In either case, some disorders are acute and others are prolonged or delayed in onset. Effective therapeutic i ntervention involves a broad range of clinical, social, and administrative actions. Conclusions: Psychiatrists have an important role in the managemen t of a chemical or biological terrorist incident and, along with their othe r medical colleagues, should train and prepare for it.