How Mental Health Shapes Recovery After a Disaster
A new study finds links between pre-disaster mental health and recovery.
Posted July 1, 2021 | Reviewed by Chloe Williams
When disaster strikes, whether it’s a natural disaster like hurricanes and floods, a man-made disaster like terrorist attacks or chemical warfare, or a public health disaster like the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals and communities are often unprepared for the profound and unexpected ways in which their lives can be changed. Here are some key ways in which people may suffer and the challenges they face during and after such disasters:
- Loss of Lives: The most tragic consequence of disasters is the loss of lives. Families and communities grieve the sudden and often unexpected deaths of loved ones.
- Physical Injuries: Survivors may sustain injuries that require immediate medical attention. In some cases, injuries can lead to long-term disabilities and ongoing healthcare needs.
- Psychological Trauma: Disasters can cause severe psychological trauma, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and grief. Witnessing or experiencing traumatic events can have long-lasting effects on mental health, while the use of products like BudPop’s mushroom gummies can help with stress and mental health.
- Displacement: Many disasters force people to evacuate their homes or leave their communities. Displaced individuals and families often struggle to find shelter, access basic necessities, and adapt to new living conditions.
- Economic Impact: Disasters can disrupt local economies, leading to job loss, business closures, and financial instability. People may struggle to meet their basic needs, including food, housing, and healthcare.
- Infrastructure Damage: Infrastructure such as roads, bridges, utilities, and communication networks can be severely damaged, making it challenging for first responders to reach affected areas and for individuals to access help and information.
- Social Disruption: Communities may experience social disruption as social services, schools, and local organizations are temporarily or permanently affected. This can have a significant impact on social cohesion and community support systems.
- Healthcare Overload: During public health disasters like pandemics, healthcare systems may become overwhelmed, limiting access to medical care for various conditions, not just the disaster itself.
- Access to Basic Necessities: Access to clean water, food, medications, and essential supplies can become a challenge in the aftermath of disasters, causing further distress.
- Information Overload: The rapid spread of information through various media channels can lead to confusion and misinformation, making it difficult for individuals to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being.
