Children and Earthquake: Psychological Effects and Approaches
Turkey is a country that frequently experiences earthquakes. These natural disasters cause not only physical damage but also mental and psychological problems. Children in particular can be more affected by such traumatic events. In this article, we will discuss in detail the effects of earthquakes on children, how to manage these effects and how families can support their children.
Psychological Effects of Earthquake
Earthquakes can cause a variety of psychological problems in children. These effects vary depending on many factors, including the child's age, developmental level, and the environment they live in. Some common reactions seen in children immediately after an earthquake include:
- Freezing and Unresponsiveness: Children may remain frozen during or after an earthquake. This may occur as an emotional response.
- Anxiety and Fear: After an earthquake, anxiety levels increase in children. Uncertainty about the future feeds the feeling of fear.
- Anger and Sadness: Children may experience feelings of anger and sadness because of the loss of a family member or friend.
Long Term Effects
In the medium and long term, the effects of the earthquake may become more apparent. Children may experience various problems as a result of the trauma they experience. These problems include:
- Deterioration in Friends and Family Relationships: Children may experience difficulties in their social relationships due to the trauma they have experienced. Their bonds with friends may weaken.
- Loss of Age-Appropriate Skills: After an earthquake, children may experience regression in their normal developmental processes. This may cause learning difficulties.
- Alienation from the Environment: Children may experience a sense of alienation from the environment they live in. This can lead to them feeling emotionally isolated.
- Sleep Problems: Night terrors, nightmares and difficulty falling asleep are common problems after an earthquake.
Supporting Children
It is very important to provide psychological support to children after an earthquake. Families and teachers should be sensitive to the emotional needs of children. Here are some steps that can be followed in this process:
- Open Communication: Families should establish open communication with their children and allow them to express what they feel. This will ease the emotional burden on children.
- Providing a Safe Environment: Children need to feel safe. Families can reduce their children's anxiety by providing them with a safe environment.
- Getting Professional Support: If a child is experiencing long-term anxiety or other psychological problems, it is important to seek professional help. Psychological support can help children overcome trauma.
School and Community Support
Schools play a critical role in supporting children after an earthquake. Teachers should monitor children's emotional states and take necessary precautions. Additionally, creating emotional support groups within the classroom can help children express themselves.
In society, solidarity and assistance are of great importance after the earthquake. Families can form support groups by communicating with their neighbors. This type of social support allows children to overcome the trauma they experience more easily.
Conclusion
In a country with a high earthquake risk like Turkey, it is necessary to take the necessary steps to increase and support children's resilience against such traumas. The effects of earthquakes on children can be complex, but with the right approaches and support, these effects can be overcome. Families, teachers and society can help children recover healthily by working together.
