Psychological and Physical Health Effects of the 1995 Sarin Attack in the Tokyo Subway System

Abstract

Describes the experiences and findings in the wake of the 1995 Sarin terrorist attack in the Tokyo subway system. Acute effects, early responses of victims and the public, incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, and limitations of early interventions are described. The long-term health effects of Sarin poisoning are discussed, including the survivors' apprehensions of unknown health effects, continued physical complaints, and posttraumatic stress symptoms. Briefly noted is the difficulty in establishing a mental health care regime for such disasters; in general, however, a relief program should provide poisoned victims and survivors with accurate health information and a sound physical health checkup system as well as supportive counseling including psychoeducation for posttraumatic stress symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)