FLOODS CAUSE PHYSICAL AS WELL AS MENTAL STRESS

Floods and their lingering aftermath cause not just physical distress but also mental distress, say doctors.

If the hardship continues for longer post disaster, people may experience post-traumatic stress disorder, diagnosable depression and anxiety disorders.

Case studies found that most people’s psychosocial needs are met through their close relationships with their families, friends and communities, but a small proportion of people are likely to require specialised mental healthcare.

Our well-being, relationships and mental health can be affected by anxiety about the present and also future economic problems associated with re-building properties and goods. Middle and lower income families are affected more than others, having fewer resources to fall back on.

K. Viraja Rao, a professor of psychology, explains that most people don’t recognise changes in their behaviour after or while they face natural disasters.

People get stressed because of the fear of having to vacate their homes, the damage to goods, and poor health.

Although it is not possible to determine whether the symptoms are a direct consequence of a natural disaster like flooding, symptoms of distress are a significant issue amongst communities affected by such events.