In a devastating turn of events, residents of Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Assam have been grappling with the aftermath of natural disasters that have upturned their lives and left deep emotional scars. Nanak Chand, a retired Himachal Roadways employee, returned to find his house collapsed following heavy rains and landslides in Solan district. Similarly, Mani from Kerala lost his home in deadly landslides in Wayanad, leading to financial strain and psychological distress for his family.
Survivors like Raheema CP and Sorojit Biswas have shared their harrowing experiences of loss and displacement, highlighting the lingering trauma and challenges of rebuilding their lives from scratch. The psychological impact of such disasters, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, is well-documented in research and manifests in various ways for survivors.
Dr. Kedar Tilwe, a psychiatrist, emphasizes the importance of seeking mental health support for survivors, as the trauma and anxiety can persist long after the immediate crisis has passed. The article also touches on the concept of second-hand trauma, where individuals who work closely with survivors may also experience emotional distress.
As these communities continue to grapple with the aftermath of natural disasters, the need for mental health support, resilience, and community solidarity is crucial in helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives. Despite the challenges they face, these resilient individuals are determined to overcome their traumatic experiences and find a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.
Source
Photo credit www.financialexpress.com
