Earthquake Mental Health Check-In - How to Overcome Acute Stress Due to Earthquake

 Earthquake Mental Health Check-in 

The magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck on Tuesday has taken 65 lives, injured hundreds, and left communities in Bogo, San Remigio, Daanbantayan, Medellin, and Tabuelan facing unimaginable loss and disruption.

To those who are grieving, injured, or simply trying to make sense of what happened — we see your pain. These moments can reawaken past trauma and bring deep fear and uncertainty. Please know that your feelings are valid, and you are not alone.

For those who may not be at the epicenter but somehow felt the earthquake, this might have a significant impact on you, especially when you are alone or when you are inside a building several storeys high; this can be very traumatizing for you. Not knowing what will happen next, how to escape, where to go, and when the next earthquake will happen next. When you are experiencing this, know that this is a normal response to sudden and life-threatening events.

Common Reactions After an Earthquake:

You may notice:

1. Fearful: feeling jumpy or easily startled by loud sounds or sudden movements

2. Flashbacks or memories of past disasters

3. Restlessness, difficulty sleeping or relaxing

4. Irritability, sadness, or numbness

5. Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue

6. You worry a lot about anything - the durability and stability of the structure of the building you are in. The news about ramphant substandard construction of building, roads, and bridge can become a trauma trigger.

These may be signs of acute stress, which is a natural response after a scary or life-threatening event.

When to Seek More Help:

If symptoms continue for more than a few weeks or feel unmanageable, it’s okay to reach out for professional support. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Mental health support is not a luxury — it's part of healing.

For Debriefing/Counseling/Psychotherapy Needs Contact:

https://safeguardmentalhealth.org/

- Harner Mental Health Services

- Jiji Laprodes Harner

Here are other ways that can help:

Here are a few grounding and coping strategies:

1. Talk to someone you trust — sharing your experience helps process it.

2. Practice deep breathing: Inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 6.

3. Limit media exposure, especially if it's overwhelming or graphic.

4. Stick to routines — structure helps your brain feel safe.

5. Stay connected to friends, family, and community.

6. If possible, do something comforting or familiar (walk, prayer, music).