Mental health issues related to disasters were recently addressed in a new scientific study which confirmed an issue previously known by many survivors of disasters: the mental health issues associated with a disaster may persist for a minimum of a decade. This study – originally published in one of the top scientific journals, and, subsequently, reported in the February 26 issue of U.S. News and World Report (Annual Report on Mental Health —cited above) reviewed dozens of studies focused on the long-lasting effects of disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and other types of emergencies, on those affected. The review found a high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse among those who were affected by disasters.
The authors reported that the mental health effects of a disaster were disproportionate among those affected. Individuals whose loved ones, homes, or livelihoods were lost; individuals with a pre-existing mental health problem; and individuals living in poverty and/or being discriminated against had a much greater chance of suffering long-lasting consequences of their disaster-related mental health than others. Children and adolescents are especially at risk; in some cases, children and adolescents show the impact of a traumatic event as many as several years after the event through difficulties in school, behavioral issues, and/or chronic medical conditions.
Expert researchers indicate these results are a “wake-up call” to policymakers. Funding and attention to mental health after disasters often peak in the 1st year after a disaster and decline significantly after that, despite the fact that survivors still may have difficulty for 5, 10, or more years after a disaster. The review encourages policymakers to ensure that disaster mental health is a part of long-term recovery plans—this includes funding for counseling on an ongoing basis, as well as peer support and community healing initiatives, well past the time when the media leave.
From an individual perspective, a validating message emerges: if you are still dealing with emotional aftershocks of a disaster years later, it does not mean “you are weak” or “you are overreacting.” Disaster mental health research is now showing that the tendency for long-term trauma is common; therefore, compassionate, ongoing support will allow survivors to recover at any point during their lives after the disaster.
Source: U.S. News / HealthDay – Disasters and Long-Term Mental Health
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