World Mental Health Day: Why psychological toll of disasters is often neglected

Hyderabad: From war zones to flood-hit regions, the invisible wounds of trauma continue to surface long after physical recovery begins.

On World Mental Health Day, focus has shifted psychological toll of disasters that is often neglected.

That is why this year the theme is `Access to Services, Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies’.

“When calamity strikes, whether a war, epidemic, or natural disaster, we tend to measure loss in terms of lives and property. But the damage within people’s minds is just as severe, though it remains unseen,” said Dr. Charan Teja Koganti, Consultant Psychiatrist, KIMS Hospitals, Kondapur.

The Unseen Aftermath

India’s National Mental Health Survey indicates that one in seven citizens requires psychological support. In times of crisis, that need becomes even more acute.

Dr. Koganti explained, “The first signs often include insomnia, anxiety, nightmares, flashbacks, and survivor’s guilt. But because the focus is on physical survival, food, shelter, and medical care, mental health support is sidelined.”

This neglect has real consequences. Studies show that post-disaster PTSD, depression, and acute stress disorders are widespread, yet only a fraction of affected individuals receive professional help. “Those already on psychiatric medication may lose access to care or prescriptions, causing relapse and worsening distress,” added Dr. Koganti.

When Systems Collapse, Support Must Not

In emergencies, healthcare systems are strained, and mental health services are among the first to be disrupted. Community outreach programs stall, and hospitals redirect resources toward immediate physical injuries.

“Access becomes a challenge,” said Dr. Anuradha Reddy, Clinical Psychologist and Disaster Mental Health Researcher. “Infrastructure breaks down, communication lines fail, and stigma prevents people from reaching out for help. What remains is an invisible epidemic of distress.”

The World Health Organization has repeatedly called for the integration of mental health into emergency response frameworks. Experts agree that while rebuilding physical infrastructure is essential, rebuilding psychological resilience must occur simultaneously.

Growing Collective Anxiety

Even those far from the epicentres of conflict or disaster are not immune. “Our news cycles are saturated with violence, displacement, and uncertainty. This continuous exposure fuels collective anxiety and helplessness,” Dr. Koganti noted.

He added that the impact of distant crises on mental well-being is often underestimated. “A person sitting safely at home might still experience anxiety or panic triggered by the relentless news of war or disaster. The fear becomes global.”

Four Key Interventions

Dr. Koganti and other mental health professionals recommend a structured approach to ensure accessibility during crises:

1. Training first responders in psychological first aid: Firefighters, police, and relief workers should be equipped to recognise and respond to signs of acute psychological distress.

2. Ensuring continuity of medication: Systems must be in place to maintain access to psychiatric medication for those with chronic conditions.

3. Expanding tele-mental health services: Remote counselling and therapy networks can bridge gaps when physical access is impossible.

4. Embedding mental health professionals in disaster management teams: Psychiatrists and psychologists should be integrated into emergency planning and field response.

From Awareness to Action

Experts say awareness alone is not enough. Policy integration, budget allocation, and sustained community-level engagement are critical. “Every emergency management plan should include a mental health component,” said Dr. Reddy. “It’s not an add-on, it’s as essential as food, water, and medical aid.”

As nations face more frequent and complex crises, mental health must move from the periphery to the centre of emergency response. The true measure of recovery, experts argue, lies not just in rebuilt homes but in healed minds.