Emotional aftermath of an earthquake in children

Two earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.7 and 7.6, the epicenter of which were in Kahramanmaraş and caused destruction in 10 cities, increased the risk of ‘earthquake trauma’ in children as well as adults. Stating that even though they may not have experienced the earthquake, children who constantly watch the images of destruction on television and social media may be adversely affected by this process said Asst. Prof. Dr. Yasemin Meral Öğütçü, Director of Psychology Research and Application Center, Izmir University of Economics (IUE). Öğütçü said, “Try to make your children feel that they are safe. In accordance with the age of the child, you can simply explain that the earthquake is a natural disaster, how it happens, and what should be done in an earthquake. However, do not allow children to constantly watch images of the wreckage on television or social media, and be careful not to make alarming comments about the earthquake.”  

Drawing attention to the fact that we are facing the biggest disaster of recent years, Asst. Prof. Dr. Yasemin Meral Öğütçü made recommendations to prevent the fear of earthquakes from causing permanent psychological trauma and mental disorders. Stating that people who are not exposed to the earthquake may also feel symptoms such as fear, anxiety, helplessness and being alert, and may experience fear of being alone, Öğütçü reminded that the earthquake is a traumatic experience for everyone.

EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS

Öğütçü said, “The disaster of the earthquake caused great sadness to all of us. Although we did not experience the earthquake, we were shaken to watch the painful images of earthquake victims. I hope we can heal the wounds of the earthquake together as soon as possible. We have experienced a great disaster and it is normal that this creates some fears in all of us. Even if we do not experience the earthquake, we can be worried, afraid of the earthquake, and worry, 'What will I do if I experience the earthquake?' Having these feelings is not a psychological problem. Right now, many of us can't sleep until very late at night. Our eating habits may be disrupted, and we may feel insecure. This is our normal reaction to an abnormal situation. There are things we can do to ensure that this situation does not become permanent. Our closest supporters are our families and relatives. Don't be introverted, don't suppress your fears about the earthquake. Share your concerns and feelings with those around you. Do not be alone as much as possible, get support from your loved ones.”

CONTACT A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL IF NECESSARY

Dr. Öğütçü continued as follows: “Do not change your routine too much during this period when anxiety reaches its highest level. Try to keep your work hours or sleep hours as stable as possible. Thoughts such as ‘What will my family do if something happens to me?’ or ‘How would I wait if I'm stuck in the wreckage?’ may come to your mind. In this case, try to focus on what you can do, the precautions that can be taken for the earthquake. Fear and anxiety will continue for a while in all of us. How long this will take varies from person to person. However, if this situation does not decrease over time and does not pass, you should definitely seek psychological support.”

DO NOT REFLECT IT ON YOUR CHILD

Stating that the fear of earthquakes has started to increase in children recently, Asst. Prof. Dr. Öğütçü said, “Earthquake is unfortunately a fact of our geography. Explain the reality of earthquakes to your children in a language they can understand, without causing fear. In an age-appropriate way, talk to your children about what needs to be done to be safe in the event of an earthquake and describe the safest area in the house. If your child has been exposed to earthquake or images of earthquake, let them share their feelings with you. Listen to your child and be understanding. Reassure your child by showing affection and compassion, and reassure your child by saying that you are taking precautions against possible dangers. Play lots of games. If there are themes about earthquakes in the games, do not interfere, just go along. Even if you are afraid of an earthquake, be careful not to reflect it on your child. Do not make comments that will increase trauma and fear, such as ‘What will we do if our house is destroyed?’ or ‘I don't feel our building is very solid’ next to your child.”