Mental Scars exacerbate after earthquake

By: Faith Angeline Neri

Ferocious shaking of the ground caused buildings to crumble like sandcastles and left students traumatized. The experience felt like a never-ending nightmare that would haunt them for the rest of their lives. The recent 6.2 magnitude earthquake in Davao de Oro had a powerful impact on the mental health of the students of Compostela National High School. It left them feeling anxious, scared, and overwhelmed with emotions of anxiety and terror, deeply traumatized long after the event had passed. They were reduced to sobbing messes due to the intensity of emotions they experienced.

Earthquakes are usually caused when underground rock suddenly breaks and there is rapid motion along a fault. This sudden release of energy causes the seismic waves that make the ground shake. The magnitude of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale, ranging from 0 to 10, with higher magnitude earthquakes releasing more energy and causing more significant damage. While the physical damage caused by earthquakes is evident, their impact on mental health can be profound and long-lasting.

Studies have shown that up to one-third of individuals who experience a natural disaster, such as an earthquake, may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and depression. For students, the emotional impact of earthquakes can be particularly acute, robbing them of their sense of safety and control in the classroom and at home. The haunting memories of the disaster can leave them in a state of perpetual fear, making it difficult to focus on their studies and move on with their lives. The psychological scars of such traumatic experiences can linger on for years, affecting the mental health and well-being of the affected individuals. An example of this is the experience of Trix Campogan, a Grade 10 Lakandula Learner, who is drowning in trauma, which drags him into fear of everything. Since the earthquake, entering his classroom on the second floor has become a nightmare.

However, with the right disaster management efforts in place, we can help individuals and communities cope with the emotional impact of earthquakes. Community-based mental health support can play a critical role in this regard, providing affected individuals with the necessary support especially in the schools, counseling services, and outreach programs run by trained mental health professionals or community volunteers.

Moreover, education and awareness programs can help individuals prepare for and cope with the emotional impact of earthquakes. This can include information on how to recognize signs of distress, self-care techniques, and resources for seeking professional help.

The recent earthquake in Davao de Oro has highlighted the profound impact that natural disasters can have on individuals' mental health, particularly on students who are still developing their sense of safety and security. The psychological scars of such traumatic experiences can exacerbate over time, affecting their mental well-being for years to come. But, with the right disaster management efforts in place, including community-based mental health support and education and awareness programs, we can help individuals and communities cope with the emotional impact of earthquakes and mitigate the longterm effects of mental scars. It is essential to prioritize mental health in disaster response efforts to ensure that those affected can heal and recover from their trauma.

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