KABUL: In the wake of a series of devastating earthquakes that have struck the province, Herat’s residents find themselves grappling not only with the physical repercussions but also with the mental toll.
Doctors at Herat Provincial Hospital have reported a surge in patients presenting with various forms of mental illness directly linked to the recent seismic events.
Over the past ten days, Herat Regional Hospital has admitted more than 1,600 individuals afflicted by mental health issues attributed to the earthquakes. Among this staggering number, 400 patients have required hospitalization, underscoring the severity of the emerging mental health crisis.
The majority of those seeking assistance at the hospital hail from villages directly affected by the recent earthquakes. Dr Qadim Mohammadi, a medical professional at Herat Provincial Hospital, highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that “mental health patients outnumber those with physical injuries threefold. The psychological consequences of a natural calamity such as an earthquake or flood far surpass the physical injury toll.”
Mah Jabin, a 20-year-old resident of Herat, shared her harrowing experience: “When I stand up, I fall back and rip my hair out. The doctors said to stay here and take these medicines.” Mah Jabin has been receiving treatment at the Herat Provincial Hospital for two days in open-air facilities, emblematic of the overwhelming influx of patients.
Dozens of other men and women, like Mah Jabin, are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital. Meanwhile, numerous patients return to their homes daily after receiving medication and counselling, illustrating the ongoing need for psychological support and intervention.
Noor Ali, a caretaker at the hospital, recounted the plight of one patient: “Our patient was at home during the earthquake. He was scared, and when we brought him to the hospital, he was bedridden. He took medication, and now he’s a little better.” This anecdote underscores the vital role medical facilities play in addressing the immediate and long-term mental health challenges arising from natural disasters.
Psychiatrist Mohammad Shafiq Amir commented on the widespread distress, noting that “a high percentage of our patients are under extreme stress, and even the majority of visitors come and say we are terrified of our homes and we are not going back there.”
In the past two weeks, Herat has experienced a series of powerful and milder earthquakes, compelling residents to evacuate their homes. Many are now residing in difficult conditions, seeking refuge under makeshift tents in parks and alongside roadways.
As Herat Province navigates the aftermath of this seismic crisis, the mental health implications remain a profound concern. Adequate mental health resources and support are crucial to help the community rebuild not only its infrastructure but also the well-being of its residents, who continue to grapple with the emotional scars left by the earthquakes.
