Disaster relief shelter experience during Hurricane Sandy: A preliminary phenomenological inquiry

Abstract

There is limited research on the psychological experience of residing in a disaster relief shelter during a natural disaster, especially during Hurricane Sandy. To better understand and improve occupants' and staff members' experiences in disaster relief shelters, preliminary phenomenological research was conducted on the shelter experience. Three former staff members at a disaster relief shelter during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 were interviewed on their experience working in a disaster relief shelter, their perception of shelter occupants' psychological challenges, the beneficial aspects of the shelter, and their recommendations to improve future shelters. Participants discussed their perception of shelter occupants’ intensified feelings of anxiety, depression, and frustration while in the shelter. Participants discussed their view of occupants feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and frustrated. Participants reported occupants and staff experiencing additional health complications in the shelter. While beneficial aspects of the shelter were reported, participants highlighted the importance of future shelters having a wider range of medical resources, more therapeutic services for adolescents, enhanced procedures to transition occupants out of shelters, and stronger psychological support for staff.