Natural disasters—like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, and floods—leave physical destruction that is visible and immediate. However, they also deeply affect mental well-being, creating a hidden aftermath that can linger long after the event itself has passed.
When a natural disaster strikes, it disrupts people’s lives. Many are forced to confront loss: of loved ones, homes, communities, and a sense of security. For survivors, this can trigger intense emotions, and a struggle to cope with the immediate and long-term psychological effects.
In the days following a disaster, survivors can experience symptoms of acute stress, such as anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and a sense of dread. While these reactions are natural, for some, they can escalate into more severe conditions.
There are many factors that contribute to the psychological impact of natural disasters. There is loss and grief with loss of people, pets, wildlife, and homes. The disruption of routine and there is uncertainty. The fear associated with the unpredictable nature of natural disasters. Social isolation may occur as networks and support may be lost.
Anxiety can present as excessive worry, fear, and difficulty concentrating.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can lead to flashbacks, intrusive memories, nightmares, and avoidance.
The sense of loss can lead to deep sadness, grief for lost loved ones and the previous way of life. Depression is a common disorder and is the most frequently diagnosed mental health disorder following a natural disaster.
Alcohol or other substance may be used to manage stress and anxiety. This may lead to dependency.
Survivors may feel guilty for having survived when others did not. This emotional burden can add to their suffering, making it difficult to seek help or even acknowledge their feelings of grief and loss.
Certain populations are more vulnerable to the mental health effects of natural disasters.
Young people are particularly susceptible to trauma since they often lack the emotional tools to process such experiences owing to their young age. The disruption to their daily routines, the loss of school or social networks, and the potential displacement from home can have lasting impacts on their development and mental health.
Older adults may find it harder to adjust to sudden changes, especially if they are coping with chronic illness, mobility challenges, or limited social support. They may also experience increased anxiety due to concerns about their health and safety during and after a disaster.
Financial instability can amplify the trauma of a disaster, as low-income individuals often lack the resources to recover and rebuild quickly. The limited access to mental health services further compounds their vulnerability.
The emergency services and volunteers who assist in disaster relief may suffer from secondary trauma, as they are exposed to intense scenes of loss and devastation. Compassion fatigue and burnout are real risks for those who work on the front lines of disaster response.
It is crucial to be aware of the signs of mental health strain following a disaster such as intrusive thoughts or flashbacks, difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares, avoidance of places or activities that remind the person of the disaster, changes in appetite or energy levels, increased irritability or anger, withdrawal from social activities and physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive problems.
What can services do?
Create spaces where survivors can share their experiences. This reduces isolation and promotes healing. Community support groups, mental health outreach programs, and culturally sensitive counselling can provide a sense of solidarity and shared understanding.
Make access to mental health care easier and affordable. Advocating for trained mental health professionals, crisis hotlines, and trauma-informed care to offer tools to address trauma and prevent long-term psychological effects.
Raise awareness about the mental health impacts of natural disasters to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help.
Educational campaigns to teach healthy coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, and healthy communication skills.
What can you do?
Seek professional help, there are appropriate treatments for mental disorders following trauma.
Connect with others and share experiences.
Practice self-care by engaging in activities like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Establishing a regular routine can provide a sense of normality and stability. Self-care routines can provide a sense of control and stability. Exercise, sleep, balanced nutrition, and simple daily routines can help individuals regain a sense of normality.
Limit your exposure to the media as excessive news coverage of the disaster can exacerbate anxiety and distress.
Seek support form community recourses such as counselling services, support groups, and other resources to help people cope with the aftermath of disasters.
You could try meditation, yoga, and trauma-informed counselling techniques can help survivors process trauma at their own pace. These practices promote self-compassion and encourage survivors to work through emotions without feeling overwhelmed.