Are all stressors the same: coping with natural disasters and PTSD

Abstract

Researchers have consistently described the influence of being exposed to natural disasters on mental health, among these post-traumatic stress disorder. These studies, however, have not discussed the role that may have different type of natural events and the interaction with social vulnerability factors on these outcomes. In the present study, we compared the rates of PTSD in two samples that were exposed to different natural events. One to an earthquake and tsunami in april 2014, and the other one to floods in march 2015. Both samples were evaluated within 2-3 after the event. We found higher rates of PTSD among those who had been exposed to the floods as compared to the earthquake. Factors associated with social vulnerability appeared to be relevant to account for these outcomes. The discussion focuses on the differences between events and consequences that reveal the role of secondary stressors associated with the disasters that also appear to play a significant role in these outcomes.