Shaping mental health following emergencies

A few months ago, Bangladesh witnessed a major emergency situation when Rana plaza building at savar collapsed that left thousands dead and many more disable. It had a devastating impact on their mental health also. Situations like these are likely to trigger or worsen existing mental health problems, especially whereas at the same time existing mental health infrastructure is weakened. However, Emergencies, in spite of their tragic nature and adverse effects on mental health are opportunities to build better mental health systems for those who need it.

Mental health is crucial to the overall well-being, functioning, and resilience of individuals, societies and countries recovering from emergencies. During and after emergencies, people are more likely to suffer from a range of mental health problems. A minority develops new and debilitating mental disorders; many others are in psychological distress. And those with pre-existing mental disorders often need even more help than before. When the plight of those suffering becomes known to the nation and the world, others often become motivated to provide assistance.

In spite of their tragic nature, many countries have capitalised emergency situations to build better mental health systems. In order to ensure that those faced with emergencies do not miss the opportunity for mental health reform, World Health Organisation published a new report "Building back better: sustainable mental health care after emergencies. The report documented cases from around the world show that it is possible to build mental health systems in the context of emergencies.

In a matter of years following the tsunami in 2004, mental health services in Indonesia's Aceh province were transformed from a sole institutional hospital to a functioning system of care, revolving around primary health care services and supported by secondary care through general hospitals.

The influx of displaced Iraqis into Jordan enabled pilot community-based mental health clinics to be established. The success of these clinics built momentum for broader reform across the country.

Sri Lanka is another fine example that was able to capitalise on the resources flowing into the country following the 2004 tsunami to leap forward in the development of its mental health services. Today, this community-based mental health system reaches most parts of the country.

Emergencies are not only mental health tragedies, but also powerful catalysts for achieving sustainable mental health care in affected communities. The surge of aid, combined with sudden, focused attention on the mental health of the population, creates unparalleled opportunities to transform mental healthcare for the long term.

We do not know when the next major emergency will be, but we do know that those affected will have the opportunity to build back better. We should take the Rana Plaza tragedy as an opportunity to transform our mental healthcare.

source: www.thedailystar.net