KLANG: Experiencing a traumatic event, such as the Putra Heights gas pipeline blast, brings significant challenges to those affected.
Many victims facing the heart-wrenching loss of their homes and various uncertainties impacting their emotional burden, may also subsequently face episodes of panic attacks, says an expert.
“A panic attack is an anxiety attack, which is a sudden episode of intense fear or distress that peaks within minutes.
“These attacks occur due to a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors,’’ said consultant psychiatrist Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj (pic).
Dr Mohanraj, who is president of both the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA) and Selangor Mental Health Association (SMHA), said ongoing stressors such as the current predicament faced by the blast victims can trigger anxiety attacks.
“Some individuals whose personalities are naturally prone to catastrophic thinking or excessive worrying are more vulnerable to panic attacks,’’ he added.
There is also a possibility that the panic attacks may linger on, said Dr Mohanraj, as it’s well documented that certain situations or memories, such as the Putra Heights tragedy, can trigger anxiety in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
According to him, women are twice as likely as men to experience panic attacks with young adults between the ages of 18 to 35 having a higher prevalence.
“Those with conditions like heart disease, thyroid disorders or irritable bowel syndrome are also linked to increased anxiety which can cause anxiety attacks,’’ he added.
Dr Mohanraj said anxiety disorders are highly treatable with a combination of psychotherapy and medications.
“Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective psychotherapy, helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns,’’ he said.
Dr Mohanraj added medications like antidepressants and short-term anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed if necessary.
“Lifestyle modifications like practicing healthy routines, including stress management and social support, are also crucial,’’ he added.
Given the possible need for mental health intervention for the affected Putra Height residents, SMHA will be sending a team of volunteers on Saturday (April 5) and Sunday (April 6) to render psychological aid.
SMHA counselling psychologist and the organisation’s treasurer Joyce Hue said a team of volunteers will be stationed at the Putra Heights Sri Maha Kaliamman Temple from 3pm to 5pm Saturday and noon to 2pm on Sunday.
“We were told by some volunteers at ground zero that the victims were still in a state of shock and hence, our intervention is seriously needed,’’ said Hue.
Hue said SMHA volunteers will conduct basic psychological first aid to help the affected people achieve calmness and a sense of hope as well as to listen to what they have to say and share some resources for help with them.
“Volunteers will also help coordinate sessions for the victims to do community counseling online with our counseling interns,’’ she said.
