AbstractThe effects of disaster work on helpers, both of the emergency services type (rescue, recovery, and identification personnel) and those who offer psychological support, are reviewed. In terms of emotional, cognitive and behavioural effects, a significant number experience short‐term stress and a small percentage experience long‐term effects, which may be of the fluctuating nature. The extent and nature of the encounter with death, and organizational factors appear as particular stressors. Coping styles (eg hardiness), age, experience and social support have been identified as moderating factors. Positive, as well as negative effects are obser