‘One in five disaster victims develops mental disorder’

Disasters or emergency situations not only cause physical harm but also significantly affect mental health. One in every five people impacted by such situations develops a mental disorder, particularly those with pre-existing conditions. Retired psychiatrist Professor Dr. Nilufar Akhter Jahan of the National Institute of Mental Health and Hospital made these remarks at a roundtable discussion titled “Mental Health Services in Disaster and Emergency Situations.” The event was organised on Thursday (October 9) at Jago News’ office in Middle Badda, Dhaka, ahead of World Mental Health Day. Nilufar Akhter said almost everyone experiences some form of mental health reaction during disasters or emergencies, including anxiety, depression, anger, sleep disturbances, loss of interest in work, and physical symptoms. For most, these...