In the modern world the recognition, understanding and treatment of bereavement in recent widows, widowers, those who experienced severe medical and surgical trauma, and victims of disasters is essential for all physicians, rescue workers such as the International Red Cross, and the community in general. This paper reviews the consequences of personal encounters with catastrophic events, as well as methods of immediate and long-term management. Similarly, the dynamic manifestations and treatment of psychologic dissonance in the family of victims, the community, and survivors are addressed. Of special interest are the problems of rescue workers, witnesses and reporters involved in disasters.