Mental Health Crisis After Catastrophes

A recent devastating flash flood triggered by a glacial avalanche claimed the lives of more than 1,300 people, rendered thousands homeless, and left about 5,000 people still missing, including nationals of different countries, while more than 13,000 people are reported to have been rescued. The cataclysmic event provided an alluring spectacle for news channels and independent content creators, allowing them to cover the incident 24/7 for a global audience. The majority of people argued for climate justice and compensation, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres. However, the focus here is on the mental health toll the event caused not only among those who lost their loved ones and livelihoods but also among the rescue teams, who are risking everything. Additionally, the ways in which this traumatic impact could be mitigated will also be discussed.