Psychological Impacts of Natural Disasters

Natural disasters are a global health issue that needs serious attention by governments because they cause significant mortality and physical injuries, as well as severe mental health disorders (WHO, 2013). Earthquakes, famine, floods, droughts, volcanic eruptions, hurricanes, and wildfires have displaced people and destroyed their livelihoods. The vulnerable are women, children, the elderly, low-income families, racial minorities, and people with pre-existing mental health disorders. Internally displaced people and refugees are also at increased risk for psychological re-traumatization (Inter-Agency Standing Committee, 2007). This paper examines how natural disasters affect the mental health of individuals, and it offers recommendations for mental health professionals and policymakers to address the psychological disorders caused by catastrophes. The literature review and the main body discuss the common mental health disorders among victims, such as trauma and stress-related disorders, acute stress disorders, adjustment disorders, prolonged grief disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and substance use disorder among disaster survivors; the actions that can help mitigate the risks associated with natural disasters; the impacts of disasters on vulnerable populations; and the broader implications of natural disasters for social work.