The 3 Keys Framework

ATSDR’s 3 Keys for Addressing Community Stress Related to Environmental Contamination is a framework for public health actions to reduce stress and build resilience in communities faced with environmental contamination.

HOW TO USE THE “3 KEYS”

Select each tab to learn more about the 3 Keys.

3 Keys Framework - Recognize, Prepare, Partner

“Recognize” Primary Objective: Understand that all public health efforts become part of the community’s “secondary impact” experience.

Secondary Objectives:

  1. Legitimize the stress experience.
  2. Communicate risk effectively.
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3 Keys Framework - Recognize

“Prepare” Primary Objective: Understand the unique ways in which chronic environmental contamination has impacted and continues to impact this community.

Secondary Objectives:

  1. Learn about the community and its needs before addressing stress.
  2. Build lasting relationships and interventions.
  3. Be aware of chronic stress, conflict, and retraumatization.
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3 Keys Framework - Prepare

“Partner” Primary Objective: Engage with the community to assess needs and develop, implement, and maintain long-term interventions and resilience mechanisms.

Secondary Objectives:

  1. Work with community leaders and build community groups.
  2. Provide informal outreach and support settings.
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3 Keys Framework - Partner
Page last reviewed: March 25, 2021