PETALING JAYA: As the victims of the Putra Heights gas pipe blast nurse their physical injuries, it is vital to take notice of their mental health because the trauma can last a lifetime for some.
Malaysian Mental Health Association president and consultant psychiatrist Professor Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said victims of the blast may struggle with sleep and concentration, among other issues.
“Mental healthcare should always be part of disaster response plans and not as an afterthought. It’s not just about giving compensation or rebuilding homes, but it is also about rebuilding lives.
“In the days following the incident, people can experience shock, confusion, fear and helplessness.
Children may become more clingy or withdrawn. Adults may struggle with sleep, concentration or increased irritability. These are the immediate reactions after such a disaster.”
Psychological First Aid (PFA) was the initial response, he said.
“Various formal and non-formal mental health sectors have been involved in this disaster from the very start. This includes the National Coalition for Mental Well-being and the Selangor Mental Health Association.”
PFA focuses on offering a listening ear to victims, providing safety, comfort and information, as well as connecting people to support systems.
For those showing persistent symptoms, access to mental health professionals is crucial.
“Most of the victims will show some persisting anxiety for the next few weeks, especially when many things in their lives remain uncertain.
“After a few weeks, or months in some cases, the distress will fade. However, beyond this period, a very small portion of the affected population may go on to develop post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression or substance-use problems.”
Dr Mohanraj pointed out that about 5% of cases may show long-term issues as seen in PTSD.
“The vulnerable ones would be those with previous or current struggles with mental health issues and those severely affected by this disaster; those with severe burns or physical injuries. It is also important to check on those who lost their pets.
“Rumours or misinformation can worsen fear and cause distrust.
“The parties concerned, including the authorities, must keep the victims informed in a supportive and honest way,” added Dr Mohanraj.
