What is emergency psychology and why is it so important in the face of tragedy? – Online Psychologists

There are many images reaching us these days from La Palma, devastating images of the consequences of the volcanic eruption: destroyed houses, destroyed crops and above all, devastated families who have been left with nothing from one day to the next.

Given the uncertainty and fear caused by the eruption, one of the key tools for the mental health of those affected is the emergency psychologyThere are many professionals who are mobilized to offer psychological help to those affected and to minimize adverse situations such as anxiety attacks or panic attacks as much as possible.

This is a type of psychological intervention which develops after a event of great emotional impact and that due to the high level of stress that this situation generates, it can be traumatic for those affected.

In the face of unexpected events such as the recent eruption of the La Palma volcano, terrorist attacks, floods, earthquakes or other types of catastrophe, the Emergency psychology is of vital importance to minimize the psychological impact that cause these situations in the victims.

Emergency psychology aims to reduce the consequences that the event in question will have on those affected, both psychological, emotional level or in their daily behavior.

In a crisis situation, all necessary means are deployed to offer help and minimize the damage caused, so psychological help for those affected must be covered.

Victims must feel heard and The help of these professionals is essential to minimize the shock and pain caused.

It outlined three principles of action:

After being the victim of a traumatic event, It is essential to receive psychological help from a professional, but how should he act? What should he do?

It is very important that the psychologist listens to the patient so that he or she feels understood. It is essential that he or she coordinates with the rest of the emergency personnel so that the situation does not get worse.

Receiving psychological support is essential for the victim to understand that their reactions are valid, each person responds to the situations presented to them differently, so In a crisis situation, it is essential to understand that your reactions are lawful and legitimate..

In the face of a catastrophe like the one in La Palma, the The reactions of those affected are very diversebut all normal and in these cases, emergency psychology and the professionals who practice it are essential.

Not everyone reacts the same way to a traumatic event.but fear, anxiety attacks, sleeping problems or panic attacks are some of the most common responses to an event of this type.

The uncertainty of not knowing what will happen next, the pain caused by losses or the anguish of not being able to control the situation are common reactions, so Psychological support is key.

Those affected need to feel heard and accompanied, it is important to know that Each person has their own time To heal and accept any situation is a difficult process, but it can be made more bearable with the help of a professional.

Emergency psychology constitutes today a branch of psychology of which should not be dispensed withtheir performance in crisis situations is key to minimising the psychological impact on those affected.