Safety & Emergency Preparedness

Iranian nationals face heightened scrutiny and potential travel ban expansions. Visa processing at Middle East embassies is severely disrupted. Immigrants from affected countries may face delays in green card and asylum processing. DACA and TPS holders should stay informed of policy changes.

War-related anxiety is surging. The APA reports that 7 in 10 Americans say the conflict is a significant source of stress. Doom-scrolling, financial worry, and draft fears are driving increased demand for mental health services. Free crisis resources are available 24/7.

The Iran conflict is triggering PTSD symptoms in veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, who are three times more likely to have PTSD than non-deployed veterans. Veterans report flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety as news coverage brings back combat memories. Family members of veterans with PTSD also experience higher rates of psychiatric disorders.

Much of it is not. AI-generated war footage has amassed hundreds of millions of views on TikTok and other platforms. The White House is also posting meme-style content. Always verify claims against major news sources like CNN, Reuters, PBS, and Al Jazeera before believing or sharing.

Study abroad programs in the Middle East and Gulf are suspended. The war costs $900M/day -- money that could fund Pell Grants. Students face higher gas, food, and housing costs on already-tight budgets. International student recruitment in Gulf countries is down 43%.

Expecting mothers face rising costs for prenatal vitamins, baby formula (up to 8% increase expected), diapers, and hospital energy costs. The Stryker cyberattack disrupted medical devices used in hospitals. Stress and anxiety from war news can affect pregnancy health. WIC and Medicaid coverage may not fully keep pace with price increases.

Core U.S. pharmaceutical supply routes don't transit the Strait of Hormuz, but energy cost increases affect drug manufacturing and distribution. The Stryker cyberattack showed healthcare is a target for Iranian hackers. Specialty drugs with Gulf-sourced ingredients may face delays. Pharmacists should monitor shortage lists closely.

Experts recommend limiting news exposure (especially live footage), maintaining daily routines, and having age-appropriate conversations. Focus on reassuring children about their immediate safety.

US cities remain safe. Iran does not have the capability to strike the US mainland. Heightened security is a precaution, not a response to specific threats.

The risk is real and elevated. Dozens of pro-Iran hacktivist groups have launched attacks on US and allied infrastructure since Feb 28, targeting financial services, hospitals, and utilities. Enable two-factor authentication and monitor your accounts closely.