Written By: Rtr. Sanathi Jayasinghe

Sri Lanka has faced repeated natural disasters over the past decade, including floods, landslides, cyclones, tsunami and prolonged droughts. From the devastating floods and landslides of 2016 and 2017 to the recent monsoonal flooding and slope failures experienced across several districts, these events have left a lasting impact not only on infrastructure and livelihoods but also on the mental well-being of affected communities.

While disaster response efforts often focus on rescue, relief, and rebuilding, the mental impact of natural disasters remains largely unseen and under-discussed. Yet emotional recovery is an essential part of long-term resilience and sustainable community rebuilding.

Emotional and Psychological Impact of Disasters

Natural disasters expose individuals to sudden danger and loss. Survivors may experience intense fear, shock and inability to recover fast, during and after such events. In flood and landslide prone regions of Sri Lanka, these emotions are often resurfaced during each monsoon season, leading to anxiety and emotional distress.

Common psychological reactions can include :

• Acute stress and emotional numbness
• Persistent fear, anxiety, or panic
• Sleep disturbances and recurring nightmares
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of sadness, anger, or helplessness

For some individuals, these reactions may develop into long-term mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety disorders, especially when recovery is slow or losses are severe.

The Impact of Repeated Disasters and Displacement

Communities affected by recurring floods and landslides often live with ongoing uncertainty. The fear of recurrence, loss of homes, loved ones, and internal stability significantly contributes to chronic stress. Having to live in temporary shelters, overcrowded living conditions, and separation from familiar environments further increases emotional stress.

Children, adults, people with disabilities, and economically vulnerable families are particularly at risk. Disruptions to education, employment, and healthcare services can cause emotional distress and hindrance in recovery.

Why Mental Health Must Be Part of Disaster Recovery?

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being and community resilience. When psychological needs are not addressed, individuals may struggle to return to daily routines, or participate in rebuilding efforts. Long-term unaddressed trauma can also contribute to social issues such as suicides, family conflicts and communal violence.

Integrating mental health awareness and support into disaster response ensures that recovery efforts are inclusive, and sustainable.

Supporting Each Other During Difficult Times

Community support plays a vital role in post-disaster recovery. Simple yet meaningful actions can significantly ease emotional distress. Active listening and empathetic behavior can create safe spaces for survivors to share their experiences without the fear of being judged. Encouraging community activities for rebuilding trust and social connections can pave a greater path for mental healing of the victims. Furthermore, we should actively identify people who are at risk of prolonged distress and guide them towards proper treatment. Last but not least, we should focus on providing appropriate emotional support for children and provide them with necessary care and fostering if needed.

Youth and service organizations play a crucial role in supporting communities affected by disasters. By advocating for mental health awareness, they help ensure emotional well-being is prioritized alongside physical recovery. These organizations can support psychosocial programs and awareness campaigns, collaborate with healthcare professionals and NGOs, and lead volunteer-driven initiatives that foster emotional resilience. Through such efforts, they can strengthen the capacity of communities to recover  after crises.

Natural disasters reshape physical landscapes, but their emotional impact can persist long after reconstruction  completes. For Sri Lanka, addressing mental health in the aftermath of floods, landslides, and other disasters isn’t a luxury but a necessity.

Through compassion, awareness, and collective responsibility, we can support emotional recovery and help communities rebuild stronger and more resilient futures.

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Buthma Menali