Earthquake is a natural disaster that has the power to deeply shake people's lives and create serious psychological effects, in addition to the structural destruction it causes in the geography in which it is located. It is possible that the situation we call "psychological trauma" that may be experienced after the earthquake may lead to severe mental and behavioral reactions such as fear, sadness, grief, anger, insomnia, intolerance, and disturbing scenes of the earthquake constantly coming to mind.
Such reactions. It is usually felt very intensely for a few days after the event and begins to decrease over time. However, if these reactions continue after a month or so, psychological help should be sought.
What should be done after earthquake-related trauma?
Spend time with your loved ones and people you care about.
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Give yourself time to understand what happened. When you feel ready, tell people you believe can understand what happened and what you felt after what happened.
Relaxing music. Use stress-reducing methods such as listening, breathing exercises and relaxation.
Take care to get your daily care, rest times, sleep, daily routine and nutrition in order.
Try to do regular activities such as walking, jogging and cycling.
How Can You Help Your Children?
Children's reactions after an earthquake differ from adults' reactions because they have difficulty understanding what happened. Because children are inexperienced in expressing their feelings, they may not be able to describe how they feel.
It may be good to give them an explanation like this: "We were very afraid of the earthquake. Our house shook, some items fell to the ground and were damaged. But it's all over, we're okay now and we're together. I will always try to protect you. You may remember the earthquake from time to time and be afraid, share your feelings with me because I will always be with you.”
Try to approach your children by taking the following points into consideration:
Reassure them that they are safe. Help your child understand Talk about what's going on and how you feel.
Give your child special attention, especially before going to bed.
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