Study: Japan earthquake may impact victims' mental health for many years

By Staff Writer

An official from the University of London said that the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan will have a long-term psychological impact on tens of thousands of people.

Although the immediate effects of the natural disaster on Japanese residents will be felt for days, weeks and months, the psychology expert said these victims are susceptible to emotional problems such as severe depression for many years to come.

She said that people who live through a devastating event are typically resilient and cooperative at first because they feel obliged to gain control of a chaotic situation. However, over time, a major psychological slump can impact these individuals when the full severity of the situation sets in.

The expert added that unpredictable events that cause thousands of deaths and substantial property damage can make people question their sense of control in the world. She said that people can regain this feeling of immense loss by setting small goals. Accomplishing these minor feats may help people feel more secure and less vulnerable to unpredictable events.

Adolescents who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, many of which provide help for troubled teens.