Mental Health Support After Disasters
Summary
Floods in Rasuwa and nearby districts have left survivors and families grappling not only with physical losses but also with grief, fear, anxiety and trauma. The article stresses the need for psychological first aid, mental health first aid, and stronger referral systems for disaster-affected communities in Nepal.
Key Points
- The floods in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha caused catastrophic loss of life and widespread psychological distress among survivors and families of the missing.
- The article explains the difference between Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) and how both should be used in disaster response.
- It highlights the role of the Department of Psychiatry at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in counselling, emergency psychiatric care and referrals.
- The article lists Nepal-based helplines and hospitals that provide immediate mental health and psychosocial support after disasters.
