- The recent tragedy in Wayanad has brought debate around Climate Trauma in discussion. Climate-induced disasters are not uncommon and often lead to terror, trepidation, and trauma.
- Distressing dreams and flashbacks are well-known symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition affecting individuals who have experienced a distressing event.
- Climate-induced disasters, unlike other natural disasters, often worsen progressively and disrupt daily lives in visceral, prolonged ways.
- Residents of climate-affected areas face the dilemma of staying and risking another disaster or leaving despite having deep roots there.
- Experts predict that as climate-induced disasters become more frequent and intense, they could change how people think.
- Continuous secretion of stress chemicals like dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline can lead to maladaptive responses and PTSD-like symptoms.
- Training people in coping skills and Psychological First Aid (PFA) is crucial.
- PFA promotes safety, stabilises survivors, and connects them to help and resources.
Dig Deeper: Read about various government initiatives for people’s mental well-being.
