The aim of this guidance is to assist Category 1 responder organisations to prepare and implement effective responses to the psychosocial and mental health needs of people who are affected by emergencies.
Although psychosocial problems may often be hidden during the aftermath of an emergency, it is important that responders are aware of this aspect of caring for people and are equipped to provide the appropriate support. The following questions can be used to prompt discussion about how well prepared responder agencies may be:
Emergencies and disasters can harm the health of people and communities in many ways. Often, the direct physical effects are readily seen, while the impacts on people’s mental health and wellbeing may be less obvious and are sometimes hidden. Minimising the suffering of individual people, families and communities, and averting the risk of emotional and psychological injury are important parts of the response to any emergency.
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