Lesson 1 Introduction to Disaster and Mental Health

PSYELEC 10

• Instructor: Ms. Robie Ann A. Frolles, RPM

Disaster

Definition of a Disaster

• Finding a universally acceptable definition for disasters is challenging.

• A disaster is characterized as the consequence of danger or the actualization of risk.

• Danger: An event or characteristic that poses a risk to humans; it is the agent that causes harm.

• Risk: The probability of exposure to danger.

Descriptions by Organizations

• According to the W.H.O, a disaster is:

  • Any event causing damage, ecological disruption, loss of life, and health service deterioration.

  • Requires extraordinary response from outside the affected area.

• The American Red Cross (ARC) defines a disaster as:

  • An occurrence, whether natural or man-made, that causes suffering and creates needs that victims cannot address without assistance.

Characteristics of Disasters

• Disasters include:

  • Significant destruction and adverse consequences.

  • They often occur rapidly and unexpectedly.

• Historical interpretations ascribed to divine punishment; the etymology of 'disaster' suggests bad luck or fortune.

Classifications of Disasters

• Disasters are generally viewed as events beyond human control, caused by unfamiliar natural forces.

• They can include various events such as:

  • Accidents (explosions, fires, etc.)

  • Impacts on the community and essential services.

Hazards

Earthquake

• A sudden shaking of the ground caused by shifting of rocks or volcanic activity.

• Can occur without warning and cause severe consequences:

  • Deaths, injuries, property damage, loss of shelter, disruption of critical infrastructure.

  • Secondary hazards include fires and flooding.

Landslide

• A landslide is the movement of rock, soil, and debris down a slope, primarily initiated by gravity but can be triggered by rainfall or earthquakes.

• Debris flows (or mudflows) are particularly dangerous due to their speed, reaching over 160 km/h.

Avalanche

• Defined as the rapid flow of snow or ice down a mountain slope.

• Natural triggers include precipitation and earthquakes, while human activities can also initiate them.

• The most dangerous type is the slab avalanche, which occurs when a large slab dislodges.

Cold Waves

• Weather events characterized by a significant drop in temperature affecting large areas, impacting people, crops, and services.

• Often precede severe winter weather, including blizzards.

Hailstorms

• Hail consists of balls of ice; storms can last up to 15 minutes but cause injuries and property damage.

• Hail may result in power loss and trigger flash floods.

Wildfires

• Large uncontrolled fires that can rapidly spread through rural and urban areas, fueled by wind.

Cyclones

• Rapidly rotating storm systems categorized by severe winds; significant threat includes flooding and structural damage.

Flood

• Results from water overflowing normal boundaries, leading to inundation or flash floods.

• Increased frequency due to land-use practices and climate change impacts.

Technological and Biological Hazards

• Originating from technological conditions or human activities, they include:

  • Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear hazards.

Volcanic Eruption

• Involves the release of magma, ash, and gases; can cause various hazards including population displacement and food shortages.

• Glowing avalanche: The most perilous eruption type, characterized by rapid lava flows.

Tsunami

• Triggered by significant sea floor displacements (often earthquakes) and can cause widespread destruction.

• They can continue to strike coastlines for extended periods, emphasizing the need for community preparedness and early warning systems.

Drought

• Long-term low precipitation leading to water shortages, impacting health, agriculture, and the economy.

Epidemics and Pandemics

• Epidemics: Sudden increases in specific illnesses within a community.

• Pandemics: Worldwide spread of an epidemic beyond borders.

• Preventive measures include good hygiene, vaccination, and social distancing.