Psychosocial Support After The Fukushima Triple Disaster, 2011: An Example of Cascading Disaster
摘要
The term “multiple disasters” refers to two or more catastrophic events simultaneously or in quick succession, exacerbating the impact and disruting response efforts. This concurrence can overwhelm local capacities, require complex coordination, and amplify vulnerabilities. This mandates integrated risk management and multi-hazard approaches to disaster preparedness and recovery. The Fukushima triple disaster of 2011, comprising an earthquake, a tsunami, and a nuclear accident, is one example of a cascading type of multiple disaster. This had an immense psychosocial impact on the affected population. The disaster necessitated a comprehensive approach to psychosocial care and support, addressing the intricate interplay of mental health, community resilience, and social stigma. In the aftermath of the events, a multifaceted support system was established to supervise and coordinate the non-radiation-related health impacts, as well as those related to radiation, such as thyroid cancer. Mental health issues, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and increased suicide rates, were among the long-term consequences noted after nuclear disasters. The multidimensional psychosocial support included in-person assistance, community activities, and basic support services around living conditions and income. Sustained efforts were made to improve public awareness about mental health and develop the capacity of available human resources to improve the response activities of mental health and psychosocial support services. Additionally, the support agencies aim to facilitate collaboration among different psychosocial care providers to ensure a long-term, community-based approach for those presented with mental health and lifestyle-related concerns post-disaster. This disaster called into question the linear thinking in disaster management from event to event. Different events’ presentations and cascading effects mandated changing the existing perception and understanding about preparing, mitigating, and responding to such disasters. This book chapter highlights the impact of multiple disasters on humankind and describes the different challenges and opportunities in providing psychosocial care following similar multiple disasters.