Trained professionals from the Kerala chapter of the Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP) are actively supporting the survivors.
Published Aug 01, 2024 | 7:45 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 01, 2024 | 7:47 PM
Kerala has come to understand the crucial need for comprehensive psychological support for Wayanad disaster survivors.
Natural disasters leave behind a trail of destruction, including the lives and livelihoods of people. While the governments focus mostly on the physical toll on people and their habitats, an important concern that has remained there for years is often overlooked — psychological health.
During the devastating flood of 2018 and the subsequent Covid-19 pandemic, Kerala faced unprecedented challenges that extended far beyond the realm of physical survival. While shelters and medical care could address physical wounds, the emotional and psychological scars ran deeper.
The trauma experienced by survivors, those affected by the Wayanad landslide who lost everything in a matter of hours, highlights the profound impact on the human psyche.
The rush of grief, loss and disorientation that follows such catastrophic events can linger long after the immediate crisis has subsided. Recognising this, Kerala has come to understand the crucial need for comprehensive psychological support for disaster survivors.
The state has increasingly focused on addressing these deep-seated emotional wounds, acknowledging that healing the heart and mind is just as vital as rebuilding homes and infrastructure.
In the landslide-affected areas in Wayanad, trained professionals from the Kerala chapter of the Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP) are actively supporting the survivors.
They have launched a dual-faceted initiative that includes providing counselling services via phone and conducting face-to-face sessions at the relief camps established in the affected areas.
This approach is designed to assist survivors in managing the emotional turmoil brought on by the disaster.
Their initial response focuses on three key principles- Look, Listen, and Link, an evidence-based method aimed at alleviating the immediate distress following traumatic events.
“Few of our team members have already arrived at the relief camps in the impacted regions, while the rest of the team is en route. They will provide psychological first aid to those affected. Additionally, a specialised group of volunteers will be available for tele-consultation services. Currently, most of them are from the Malabar region. Today, we are compiling the next list of psychologists. However, if needed, more psychologists are available at any time.” ICAP Kerala Region General Secretary Vidya Susan Jose told South First.
Everyone going through a traumatic phase needs care, but women and children require additional support.
‘’Children process trauma differently, so extra care is essential, and our team, experienced from working during pandemics and floods, is well-equipped to provide it,” Vidya said.
‘’We focus on treating each individual uniquely, as their thought processes vary. Our biggest concern is those already receiving psychological and psychiatric help, as they may perceive this tragedy differently, so we also collect data on their experiences,’’ she added.
In the long term, teleconsultation will be beneficial. Although psychological first aid is designed for immediate use, its benefits can be extended.
‘’Stress reactions may not occur immediately but are likely to surface in the future. Stress reactions go through various phases. Currently, many individuals are exhibiting acute stress reactions, but stress, trauma, and grief reactions may disrupt them later on,” Vidya said.
Psychological first aid is effective in addressing acute stress reactions, such as fight-or-flight responses and disbelief. It helps individuals navigate this initial phase.
‘’However, in the subsequent phase, delayed reactions can become apparent, especially as compressed stress sets in. Many individuals may vacate relief camps after a few weeks, at which point feelings of loss may resurface, potentially leading to anxiety and restlessness,” she added.
“To address this, we plan to provide continued psychological support through teleconsultation or direct visits. Ongoing psychological support will be necessary for a certain period to help individuals manage these delayed reactions effectively,’’ she said.
Even legacy media forget the principles of reporting when they are at a tragic site. They approach even children to narrate the tragedy.
“Children’s traumatic reactions vary based on factors such as age and level of development. They may respond emotionally, mentally, behaviorally, and physically in different ways. Some might experience helplessness, others might feel distrust and fear, while some may exhibit severe anger,” Vidya said.
“We must approach children with sensitivity and compassion. It is important to raise awareness among those who interact with them, including the media. This principle applies not only to children but also to adults. We should be cautious not to exacerbate their trauma through our questions and interactions. Protecting individuals from further harm is crucial for their recovery and survival,” she added.
Vidya said since they have already gone through the most tragic experience of their lives, it must be ensured that we deal with them with respect.
“Just a few hours ago, they too had a normal life like us, but within minutes, they lost everything. That doesn’t mean they can be treated anyway. They too have dignity, so don’t forget that. Our dealings should be respectful and considerate. Don’t put them through further trouble,” Vidya said.
“Another major point is about the public. Everyone is seeing and hearing only news about this tragedy, which may affect them as well. Before circulating sensitive content and misleading information via social media, remember the person on the other side. Apart from the survivors, many people have shared that some videos and pictures are disturbing them psychologically. So, be a little more vigilant in such times.” she added.
Kerala Association of Professional Social Workers (KAPS) — an organisation of social workers formed in December 2012 — is also active in giving psychological support to survivors of the Wayanad landslide.
KAPS has been registered as a society under the Travancore-Cochin Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies Registration Act, 1955.
The formation of KAPS has fulfilled the dream of many veteran social workers to unite their voices to deal with issues of professional interest. The association is formed with the purpose of promoting the quality and effectiveness of social work practices in Kerala.
“In the primary stage, we address relief camps. In hospitals, the prime focus is on physical injury, and only after that can counselling be provided. We have talked with the DMO (District Medical Officer) and the district mental health coordinator. We believe that psychological support is an emergency need in hospitals. We have created a pool of social workers and psychologists, and psycho-social counsellors in Wayanad have received special training on providing psychological first aid from NIMHANS. Additionally, a team from NIMHANS, Bangalore will reach Wayanad on 3 August,” KAPS Wayanad District Secretary Bibin Chembakkara told South First.
“The Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) in Kozhikode has already joined us. We have 60 psychosocial counsellors and professionally qualified psychologists who are ready to work at any time if needed. We have assigned counsellors to relief camps already. People in hospitals also need support, as many have lost immediate relatives, parents, children, etc. Therefore, we are coordinating with hospitals as well. We do not run a parallel system; we aim to strengthen the existing system through our contribution,” he added.
Those who deal with psychological issues and need professional help can contact the helpline numbers mentioned below.
Helpline Numbers
DISHA: 1056 (tollfree) and 0471- 2552056
Childline: 1098
Women’s helpline: 1091
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil)
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