Predictors of help seeking among Connecticut adults after September 11, 2001

Objectives. We conducted a population-based telephone survey in an attempt to determine correlates of formal and informal help seeking after September 11, 2001. Methods. Between October 15 and December 31, 2001, 1774 Connecticut Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System respondents were asked questions directly related to their experiences of September 11. Results. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that receipt of formal help was predicted by sleep problems, close association with a victim, reports of increased smoking or drinking, and receipt of informal help. Age, gender, reports of 1 or more problems, and formal help seeking predicted receipt of informal help. Conclusions. Public health planning and bioterrorism preparedness should include programs addressing increased smoking and drinking, sleep problems, and bereavement in the wake of disasters.