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Natural disasters and mental health
Sy Atezaz Saeed1, Steven P Gargano2
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
International Review of Psychiatry (Abingdon, England)
|May 18, 2022
Summary
Natural disasters can negatively impact mental health, causing distress and psychological conditions. Evidence-based interventions can mitigate these effects by promoting safety, hope, and social connection.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Disaster Management
Background:
- Natural disasters cause significant trauma and disruption.
- Adverse events can lead to short- and long-term psychological distress.
- Mental health conditions pose a substantial burden on affected individuals and communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a narrative review of the mental health effects of natural disasters.
- To discuss effective, evidence-based interventions for disaster survivors.
- To explore the timing and cultural considerations of interventions.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature.
- Identification and synthesis of evidence-based interventions.
- Focus on psychological well-being and community needs.
Main Results:
- Natural disasters can threaten psychological well-being and lead to mental health conditions.
- Interventions can enhance safety, hope, optimism, and social connectedness.
- Culturally sensitive interventions can be applied pre, peri, and post-disaster.
Conclusions:
- Mental health support is crucial following natural disasters.
- Proactive and culturally tailored interventions improve outcomes.
- Addressing psychological needs is vital for community resilience.
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