In Tornado-stricken Ala., Shock Yields to Grief

BIRMINGHAM (AP) — The twisters that clobbered the South about a week-and-a-half ago killed hundreds, wiped out homes and also left emotional wreckage.

Storm survivors are just beginning to get over the initial shock of having lived through the deadliest cluster of tornadoes since the Depression. As reality sets in, some of them will experience grief, anger, anxiety and helplessness in the coming months.

That's why a small army of therapists has been sent to hard-hit areas throughout Alabama. They have set up shop in mental health centers and emergency shelters.

And they are heading out to ruined neighborhoods to help people cope with the loss of loved ones, the destruction of homes and possessions, and the monumental task of rebuilding.