A disaster, like the floods that hit Kerala, could trigger the fear of death in people’s mind. In the first phase, it could lead to two types of mental states. Firstly, acute stress reaction where the balance of mind is disrupted and second, temporary adjustment disorder where one refuses to adapt to new circumstances.
ACUTE STRESS REACTION
It is like a vehicle breaking down for a few days. The affected person could feel that he is going to die, which may affect his or hers daily life. They might have recurring thoughts of life-threatening events and could suffer from sleeplessness, loss of appetite, high pulse rates and dizziness, among others. People who are not that mentally strong are more prone to this disorder.
How to tackle
* Listen patiently to what the affected people have to say. Be with them and give them confidence. If counselling is necessary, get them to talk to social workers. The help of a psychologist too can be sought.
* If the person could not regain his or her mental health, he or she may have to seek the treatment of a psychiatrist.
ADJUSTMENT DISORDER
Disaster-affected people will not be able to cope with new circumstances. Patients could suffer from loss of sleep and appetite. Usually, no medicines are needed to treat adjustment disorder.
How to tackle it
Bring together people who are facing same issues; a relief camp itself is a good platform. Let them share their experiences. The thought that everybody has similar problems will help them overcome the disorder.
Serious Issues
Both acute stress reaction and adjustment disorder should not last for more than two-three weeks. If they do, they could lead to more serious issues; one-third of these patients are likely to fall into depression.
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious mental condition. Patients could face the impact of the disaster with same intensity even months after it had taken place. They could have flashbacks during sleep and when they are awake, triggering scare, shaking or trembling, and fear to stay alone.
How to tackle
Patients will need the help of a psychologists and a psychiatrist to overcome the disorder. If needed, they would have to take medicines. Meditation and yoga are also helpful in cure.
(Source: Kozhikode KMCT Medical College Psychiatric Professor Dr P N Suresh Kumar)
