Addressing the Psychological Impact of Floods: The Importance of Psychological First Aid
Kamal Silwal from Nakkhu, Lalitpur ( Name changed) never imagined that the sound of water, something as mundane as the drip from his kitchen tap, would one day trigger fear. After narrowly escaping death in a recent flood, he has been left deeply traumatized. His once peaceful life has been overtaken by fear, anxiety, and overwhelming stress. Kamal’s experience, though deeply personal, is shared by hundreds of people across Nepal who have faced similar disasters. The recent floods, while causing visible physical damage, have left an equally devastating psychological impact on those who lived through them.
Natural disasters like floods, landslides, and earthquakes are known to leave deep scars on the human psyche. It's not just about the destruction of property or the loss of livelihood; the emotional and psychological toll can be long-lasting. People who have witnessed or experienced such traumatic incidents often feel unsafe even in normal environments, their minds constantly reliving the disaster. Fear and anxiety are natural responses, but when these emotions persist beyond a certain threshold, they begin to disrupt daily life.
For many, these traumatic experiences can lead to psychological conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. In Kamal’s case, even the sound of running water now evokes panic. This is the reality for many survivors. The mere recollection of the event can trigger anxiety attacks, flashbacks, and overwhelming distress. It is in these moments that Psychological First Aid (PFA) becomes not only important but necessary.
What is Psychological First Aid (PFA)?
Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-based approach aimed at helping individuals in the immediate aftermath of a disaster or crisis. Much like physical first aid, PFA seeks to provide initial care and support. It helps reduce the initial distress caused by traumatic events and assists individuals in developing healthy coping strategies. PFA doesn’t require professional therapists or psychologists; it can be administered by community members, volunteers, or anyone trained to provide basic emotional support.
In post-disaster situations, many survivors, like Kamal, may not immediately recognize the extent of their psychological trauma. They might downplay their emotional pain, considering it less critical than the physical damage they have endured. This is where PFA becomes crucial, as it helps bring to light the emotional struggles individuals may not readily express.
The Role of Communities and Volunteers
Communities and volunteers are often the first to respond after a disaster. They play a key role in identifying those who may be struggling emotionally. After the recent floods, for example, it is vital for volunteers to go beyond providing food, shelter, and physical care. They must also be trained to listen and observe, offering emotional support to those showing signs of distress.
Some of the ways in which communities and volunteers can help include:
- Looking for signs of distress: Survivors may show signs of withdrawal, anxiety, irritability, or hypervigilance. Volunteers should be trained to recognize these symptoms and approach individuals in a calm and compassionate manner.
- Listening to experiences: One of the core aspects of PFA is listening. People need to share their stories, their fears, and their frustrations. Simply listening without judgment or interruption can provide immense relief.
- Normalizing reactions: It's important to remind survivors that feeling afraid or anxious after a traumatic event is normal. These emotions are part of the body's natural response to danger. However, when these feelings become overwhelming and interfere with daily functioning, individuals may need further help.
- Assessing needs and providing referrals: While PFA is helpful for immediate emotional support, some individuals will require professional counseling or mental health care. Volunteers should be trained to assess the severity of someone’s condition and, when necessary, refer them to mental health professionals.
Why Psychological Support is Crucial After Disasters
Disasters not only destroy physical infrastructure but also dismantle the emotional stability of entire communities. For many, the aftermath of the disaster may be more emotionally overwhelming than the event itself. The memories, the grief over lost loved ones, the fear of recurrence—all contribute to heightened stress levels.
Without proper psychological support, survivors can develop long-term mental health issues, affecting their ability to rebuild their lives. The effects of untreated trauma can manifest in various ways, from chronic anxiety and depression to relationship problems and even substance abuse.
As we continue to rebuild our communities physically, it is equally important to address the invisible wounds that many carry. Survivors like Kamal need more than just a roof over their heads; they need emotional support to heal from their trauma and reclaim a sense of normalcy.
As Nepal faces the aftermath of yet another devastating flood, it is essential to integrate Psychological First Aid into disaster response efforts. This approach should be embraced at the community level, with volunteers and local leaders trained in basic emotional support techniques. PFA can make a significant difference in helping survivors process their trauma and begin their journey toward healing.
We must acknowledge that psychological recovery is just as important as physical recovery. By offering empathy, listening to survivors, and normalizing their emotional responses, we can help them move forward with resilience and hope. With the right support, the scars left by disasters can heal, and individuals can regain control of their lives.
-By ICMS Staff Writer