As the reactions during and after the earthquake may differ in each person, the common emotion that we all have is fear. Immediately after the earthquake, the person may experience symptoms such as feeling extremely afraid, not knowing what he is doing, not being able to feel his emotions, not being able to react, not being able to perceive the environment or situation fully. The fear of death, which suddenly affects the person, can create a sense of helplessness and panic in the person.
Psychological problems seen in people who are rescued from the rubble after the earthquake
First of all, it is very normal to have symptoms of stress within the first 48 hours. The psychiatric equivalent of the symptoms lasting at least 2 days and maximum 4 weeks is an acute stress reaction and is considered as a normal reaction to an abnormal event. When symptoms persist for more than 1 month, it can be said to turn into a post-traumatic stress reaction. First of all, the picture that we are concerned about and that may cause other psychiatric symptoms is caused by this situation. Depressive symptoms may accompany this picture in the future. Especially untreated post-traumatic stress reaction may be accompanied by depressive symptoms. In post-traumatic stress reaction, symptoms of panic at the level of anxiety or vice versa may be seen. There may be behaviors to avoid situations, images, places.
Irritability: There is an alert mood, ready to be warned at any moment.
The most common psychological and physical problems after an earthquake
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - persistent fear, anxiety, and flashbacks about the traumatic event.
- Depression - feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
- Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) - Similar to PTSD, but with the appearance of symptoms in the first days after the traumatic event. Feelings of sadness and loss associated with his death or injury.
- Substance abuse - increased substance use as a coping mechanism.
- Physical waistline ailments - headaches, stomach problems and fatigue related to stress and trauma.
What should be done to get rid of this phobia?
As much as possible, the individual lives together with his/her emotion. should be provided to describe the traumatic memory. The individual should be encouraged and accompanied to the transfer with a supportive approach. However, by not asking curious questions, one should not be compelling. The more transfer can be achieved, the easier it is to face the process and the phobic picture is avoided. In this way, we can both prevent traumatic stress and reduce the possible fear material in the process of encountering it.
How to provide psychological support to earthquake victims?
In the current period, our priority should be psychological first aid. First of all, the primary needs must be met. That is, vital needs must be met. A safety area should be created that allows people's natural healing processes. Not everyone may need or want psychological first aid. In this case, it is very important to be available without forcing people who do not want help, but only when they ask for support.
Active listening: The person should be listened to without judgment and allowed to express their feelings and thoughts about the earthquake.
Acknowledgment of feelings: Experiences and feelings are valid and important
Reassure: Reassure that they are not alone and that help is available.
Supporting self-care: Supporting them to take care of themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally through sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet.
With Resources make connections: Share information about available resources such as mental health professionals, support groups, and helplines when they need it.
Providing a safe space: Create a safe and supportive environment where they can talk and be heard.
Avoid giving advice: What to do instead be asked for their needs and be supported without judgment.
Respecting coping mechanisms: Everyone copes with trauma differently. Coping mechanisms should be respected.
When should earthquake survivors seek support?
Do you know that there is different response to traumatic events and there is no single "right" way? It is important not to forget. Since psychological problems can affect the daily life and recovery of the person, professional help should be sought from a mental health specialist such as a psychologist or psychiatrist in cases where the functionality of your person is impaired. Psychological support helps individuals process their experiences, cope with stress and emotional distress, and prevent long-term mental health problems.
How should we approach traumas?
It is very important to do it with the right content. Although it is well-intentioned, trying to provide more than the needs of individuals who have experienced disasters and survived, may do more harm than good. We are in the acute phase right now. In this period, the priority is to provide the most basic vital needs of the survivors, to establish bonds and to try to re-establish the sense of security. In some cases, the trauma may heal on its own. Within 1 month, the person's symptoms may subside. The person becomes involved in life and can return to his old life. It should not be forgotten that this process is unique for each individual.
How can those indirectly exposed to trauma protect their mental health?
Try to maintain your daily routines: Try to return to daily routines as soon as possible. Keep up with feel-good activities that you enjoy doing.
Talk about your feelings: Talking about the traumatic event and how it affected you can help you process the experience and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Take care of yourself: Exercise, sleep and Maintaining physical health through a balanced diet can help reduce the impact of stress and trauma.
Connect with others: Spending time with friends, family, or a support group can provide a sense of community and help you feel less isolated. Keep busy: Pursuing your hobbies and other activities you enjoy can distract you and help you feel more positive. Prolonging the breathing rate while exhaling (like blowing, whistling) &n bsp; slows the heart rate. In this way, we can convey the message that we are safe. Should we behave?
Most of us these days experience similar emotions at the same time. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, mourning.. Maybe we cry from time to time, we have difficulty focusing on our daily life, maybe sometimes we forget what happened and act and react in daily life. At this stage, everything is normal, the experience of many of us is like a choppy sea. .Organize the news feed.
Not neglecting the basic needs: Make an effort to sleep, eat regularly and maintain your personal care.
Seeking support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, getting support from an expert helps to process emotions. It provides a sense of comfort and support.
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