Response to Letter to the Editor: Enhancing Disaster Mental Health Preparedness: Insights from Taiwan’s Earthquake Response and a Comparative Reflection on the Izmir Earthquake

People in the 2020 Izmir Earthquake". 1 We appreciate the reference to the recent earthquake in Hualien, Taiwan, and commend the Taiwanese health authorities for their comprehensive and proactive mental health response.The examples highlighted in the letter reinforce the importance of integrating mental health services into disaster preparedness and response frameworks globally.We fully agree that both immediate and long-term psychological support is essential not only for survivors but also for emergency responders, whose emotional burden is often overlooked. 2 The inclusion of community-based mental health services, religious coping mechanisms, and social support structures is vital in building resilience in disaster-affected populations. 3,4ur study was conducted in the specific context of the 2020 Izmir earthquake and aimed to highlight the psychological impact experienced by frontline emergency personnel.Although our findings focused on a single national context, the response from Taiwan adds a valuable comparative dimension, helping to extend the conversation toward more universal, culturally sensitive approaches in disaster mental health care.We hope that our study, together with responses such as this letter, will contribute to a growing body of evidence that informs policy and practical interventions worldwide.Continued dialogue and the sharing of experiences across countries and disciplines is essential in improving the mental health outcomes of all those affected by natural disasters.