Focus on Psychosocial Health of Bhotekoshi-Trishuli Flood Victims

Psychologists and counselors who visited the flood-affected areas have reported common psychosocial symptoms among the victims, including stress, anxiety, sadness, and frequent crying. Sushila Pokharel, a counselor at the holding center in Vidur Municipality-4, Nuwakot, shared her experience that the disaster has had a more profound psychological impact on those bearing family responsibilities. She stated, “These people were just recovering from the earthquake’s trauma… In the past, floods and landslides were common as well. They reside along the riverbanks, and COVID also caused issues for them. Now, they have nothing left.”

She added, “Earlier they could save at least something, but now they have nothing, not even relatives to support them. They are completely traumatized.” Most of the people staying at the holding center visibly exhibit fear. Counselor Pokharel noted, “Some openly express it, while others do not. But, upon deeper conversation, all show signs of fear, concern about the future, and uncertainty.”

Anjan Kumar Dhakal, a clinical psychologist at Kanti Hospital, has visited many holding centers in the flood-affected areas and met the victims. He said, “People who have lost everything often exhibit restlessness, worry, and confusion for an extended period.” According to the Ministry of Health, psychosocial first aid and counseling services have been provided to 1,239 individuals from the affected areas so far.

Ministry data reveals that the largest number of services are being delivered in twelve holding centers in Nuwakot, staffed by 45 personnel. Counselor Sushila provides psychological first aid daily by interpreting people’s facial expressions, engaging in conversation, and offering necessary support.

Senior psychiatrist Saroj Prasad Ojha explained that after a disaster, some individuals go through a phase of denial, which is initially difficult to accept. He said, “The event has occurred; now we must focus on the present and think towards resolving the problems.”

Counselors emphasize that it is not appropriate to offer false assurances to the affected individuals. Dhakal added, “It is important not to probe into matters that they do not wish to disclose.”