Effects of floods on the mental health of Pakistanis: a commentary

Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2023 Apr 11;85(5):2253-2255. doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000000590. eCollection 2023 May.

Abstract

Over the years, worsening climate change has led to multiple spells of heavy rain and floods in Pakistan, with the 2022 floods ranked as the deadliest in world history. To top it off, decades of political instability, mental health stigma, and lack of psychological support have tipped the after-effects over the edge. These floods have taken a toll on more than 13 000 people, with inaccessibility to vital necessities leading to further deaths every week. Local and international support is imminent for better handling of the crisis and reducing the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorders and other mental health-related issues.

Keywords: Pakistan; mental health; natural disasters.