Kings County Doctor Earns Prestigious Book Award Nomination

	Dr. Joseph P. Merlino

A book about the psychological impact of severe trauma such as the recent attacks in Colorado and Wisconsin has earned Dr. Joseph Merlino of Kings County Hospital Center, a nomination for the prestigious Psychiatry Book of the Year Award by the British Medical Association (BMA).

“Disaster Psychiatry: Readiness, Evaluation, and Treatment” explores the field of psychiatry that deals with the psychological and emotional impact of severe trauma on humans who experience natural disasters and tragic events like those in Colorado and Wisconsin. The field embraces a wide spectrum of clinical interests including public health preparation, early psychological intervention, consultation and treatment.

“Disaster psychiatry is about providing immediate psychological first aid to those who are traumatized and those caring for them,” said Dr. Merlino, Deputy Executive Director of Behavioral Health at Kings County Hospital, and contributing author to the book. “I am proud we have been nominated for the book award. But I am even more grateful for the opportunity to help so many individuals and families who are experiencing deep pain and need a guiding path out of their suffering.”

The winning publication will be announced at a ceremony and reception on September 13, 2012 at BMA House.

“Disaster Psychiatry: Readiness, Evaluation, and Treatment” is the second book published by the Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry’s Committee on Disasters and Terrorism, of which Dr. Merlino is a member. The first volume, “Hidden Impact: What You Need to Know for the Next Disaster: A Practical Mental Health Guide for Clinicians” (Jones & Bartlett, 2010) was co-edited by Dr. Merlino.

Dr. Merlino’s interest in disaster psychiatry grew out of his work during 9/11 when he was Director of Ambulatory and Community Psychiatry at Bellevue Hospital Center and worked with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, including running support groups for City Morgue staff.

September 2012