KLANG: The impact of losing homes and belongings, such as in the recent gas pipeline blast and fire in Putra Heights, can weigh heavily on children, says a child psychiatrist.
Vulnerable children are often most affected, according to Dr Norharlina Bahar.
“Those with existing emotional struggles or those from unstable home environments may have a harder time coping with the situation as they may feel more distressed," the consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist said when contacted.
These children could also face long-term effects and ongoing psychological challenges such as anxiety, depression, or behavioural problems, she added.
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In general, the impact of disasters on minors also depended on factors such as age, the experiences they had, as well as the reaction of the adults around them during the crisis.
“Children look to adults for guidance, and if adults stay calm and supportive, children can cope better.
“Children also benefit from caring adults who can offer comfort and help," she explained.
She said younger children who witnessed and suffered losses during calamities could feel insecure despite not fully understanding the situation.
Older children, who understood better, may experience strong anxiety and sadness, she added.
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“Teenagers may understand the loss better, but may experience stronger emotions like sadness, anger, or confusion, as well as worry about their future.
"Generally, parents can minimize the damage to their children following a disaster, like the Putra Heights gas pipeline blast, by maintaining a stable and supportive environment.
“It's important for them to provide emotional reassurance, establish routines, and engage in comforting activities that foster a sense of safety and security.
“Parents should also be patient and understanding and create space for their children to express their emotions and support their healing process," she said.
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According to Dr Norharlina, relief workers and mental health volunteers can help young children by offering psychological first aid and providing mental health and psychosocial support.
There is also a need to help caregivers understand normal patterns of grief and offer practical assistance to families, to ensure children feel safe and cared for during traumatic events, she said.
As for teenagers, relief workers and volunteers would need to focus on providing emotional support by creating opportunities to talk about their feelings, she added.
“Mental health care volunteers can also promote peer support and help teenagers to express themselves through social media if they choose," she said.
