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Breaking Through Barriers and Building Disaster Mental Resilience: A Case Study in the Aftermath of the 2015 Nepal Earthquakes

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  • Alisha KC

    (Centre for Environment and Population Health, School of Medicine, Griffith University, Nathan QLD 4111, Australia)

  • Connie Cai Ru Gan

    (Centre for Environment and Population Health, School of Medicine, Griffith University, Nathan QLD 4111, Australia)

  • Febi Dwirahmadi

    (Centre for Environment and Population Health, School of Medicine, Griffith University, Nathan QLD 4111, Australia)

Abstract

Introduction: Nepal was hit by two devastating earthquakes in 2015 that disrupted its socio-economic system and shattered many lives, resulting in increased mental health issues during the post-earthquake phase. Disasters can have severe mental health impacts on the affected population, making it necessary to enhance resilience within communities and to help them to adapt well in the face of adversities. From these earthquakes, this study looks to identify measures needed to develop community mental resilience for disaster preparedness in Nepal. Method: We conducted this research using the qualitative case study method and thematic analysis (TA). Result: Several activities were carried out by organizations to support the psycho-social aspects of communities, but were challenged by existing barriers. After considering the present context, this study presents five recommendations for mental resilience and also suggests the utilization of existing resources, such as faith-based organizations and teachers in the communities. Despite the considerable impact, communities demonstrate their own resilience, to some extent, through the culture of sharing and helping each other. Conclusions: A firm commitment is required from the government to enhance resilience by mainstreaming mental health in all areas of disaster management and planning.

Suggested Citation

  • Alisha KC & Connie Cai Ru Gan & Febi Dwirahmadi, 2019. "Breaking Through Barriers and Building Disaster Mental Resilience: A Case Study in the Aftermath of the 2015 Nepal Earthquakes," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(16), pages 1-18, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:16:y:2019:i:16:p:2964-:d:258555
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Febi Dwirahmadi & Shannon Rutherford & Dung Phung & Cordia Chu, 2019. "Understanding the Operational Concept of a Flood-Resilient Urban Community in Jakarta, Indonesia, from the Perspectives of Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change Adaptation and Development Agencies," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(20), pages 1-24, October.
    2. Zhuolin Yong & Linmei Zhuang & Yi Liu & Xin Deng & Dingde Xu, 2020. "Differences in the Disaster-Preparedness Behaviors of the General Public and Professionals: Evidence from Sichuan Province, China," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-12, July.

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