Abstract
Ecological disasters highlight the importance of understanding natural disasters as they relate to a changing global climate. Such disasters often have a predictable pattern of evolving over time and anticipated psychological and behavioral problems and community disruptions. Various factors enhance transmission of these adverse effects beyond the geographic location of the ecological disaster, with certain populations being particularly vulnerable to these effects. Understanding the range and pattern of these effects can aid in optimizing interventions. The use of evidence-informed interventions can reduce distress, enhance well-being, and improve functioning for affected individuals and communities. Effective preparedness involves an understanding of these factors, incorporation of them at all stages of disaster management, and continuous education and training for disaster planners and responders.
Highlights
Reviewed by: Alessandra Della Vecchia, University of Pisa, Italy Paolo Cianconi, Department of Mental Health (DSM), Italy
Ecological disasters highlight the importance of understanding natural disasters as they relate to a changing global climate
All-hazards planning addresses the full spectrum of threats, including all types of disasters, and is the current framework for global disaster management with mental health being recognized as a critical aspect of healthcare that should be incorporated into all phases of disaster planning [2]
Summary
Disasters are severely impacting events that overwhelm the coping resources of a local community. Ecological disasters are occurring with increased frequency and severity (see Figure 1), believed to be in part due to a changing global climate, which has been called one of the most significant threats to global health in the 21st century [1]. These disasters result in disruption through damage to property, physical injury and death, psychological distress, displacement of individuals and families, and prolonged disruption to a broad range of services upon which communities rely. All-hazards planning addresses the full spectrum of threats, including all types of disasters, and is the current framework for global disaster management with mental health being recognized as a critical aspect of healthcare that should be incorporated into all phases of disaster planning [2]
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