Globally the frequency of floods is on rise causing socio-economic losses. Flood impacts are categorized into three phases—immediate, medium-term, and long-term—each with distinct health risks, from injuries and disease to lasting mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Certain groups, such as the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly vulnerable, often facing social disruption, increased substance use, and maladaptive coping behaviors. Addressing these impacts, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) is essential in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) frameworks but has traditionally focused on post-disaster responses. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction promotes the integration of MHPSS in a proactive manner, emphasizing resilience and preparation. Models such as the Resilience Model, Five Essential Elements, and the Psychosocial Intervention Pyramid provide structured, multi-layered approaches for MHPSS, addressing community and individual resilience, trauma recovery, and social support. Nonetheless, there are substantial gaps in effective, context-sensitive implementation, as guidelines by IASC, OPSIC, and the Red Cross reveal challenges in consistency and adaptability across diverse disaster contexts. Increased funding, cross-sector collaboration, and cultural adaptation of MHPSS services are vital for supporting flood-prone communities in facing repeated, intensifying flood risks. Integrating MHPSS into DRR can build stronger, more resilient societies, ensuring that both immediate and long-term psychosocial needs are met.

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Beyond the Waters: Psychosocial Dimension of Flood Risk Reduction

  • Shahla Saeed,
  • Imtiaz Ali

摘要

Globally the frequency of floods is on rise causing socio-economic losses. Flood impacts are categorized into three phases—immediate, medium-term, and long-term—each with distinct health risks, from injuries and disease to lasting mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Certain groups, such as the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly vulnerable, often facing social disruption, increased substance use, and maladaptive coping behaviors. Addressing these impacts, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) is essential in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) frameworks but has traditionally focused on post-disaster responses. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction promotes the integration of MHPSS in a proactive manner, emphasizing resilience and preparation. Models such as the Resilience Model, Five Essential Elements, and the Psychosocial Intervention Pyramid provide structured, multi-layered approaches for MHPSS, addressing community and individual resilience, trauma recovery, and social support. Nonetheless, there are substantial gaps in effective, context-sensitive implementation, as guidelines by IASC, OPSIC, and the Red Cross reveal challenges in consistency and adaptability across diverse disaster contexts. Increased funding, cross-sector collaboration, and cultural adaptation of MHPSS services are vital for supporting flood-prone communities in facing repeated, intensifying flood risks. Integrating MHPSS into DRR can build stronger, more resilient societies, ensuring that both immediate and long-term psychosocial needs are met.