KUALA LUMPUR: The floods that wreaked havoc in eight states including Selangor and several districts in Pahang and Negri Sembilan recently could have a life-altering impact on survivors.

       Malaysia’s worst flooding in years, which displaced tens of thousands of people from their homes, damaged property and killed 48 people as of Monday, can have a deep impact on victims, both mentally and emotionally.

       According to Management and Science University psychiatric counsellor and director of Clinical Centre of Excellence Prof Dr Muhammad Najib Mohamad Alwi, the psychological reaction to the catastrophic disaster would greatly depend on an individual’s resilience.

       He said some victims could still be calm amidst the calamity and were already back on their feet, including repairing their damaged homes and vehicles.

       However, in comparison, others would be experiencing great stress.

       “Other factors which will determine the psychological reaction of an individual towards such a calamity include past experience with disasters, self-efficacy amid pressure, and crisis preparedness.

       “For those who have had similar experiences, the trauma and memories may be too overwhelming and rather than moving forward, they remain stuck in the trauma. When this happens, the individual experiences an acute stress reaction or acute stress disorder.

       “Or, perhaps, their past experiences have made them calmer, stronger and prepared for any eventuality,” he told Bernama.

       Dr Muhammad Najib also said during or in the aftermath of a disaster, there was a tendency for an individual to point an accusing finger at certain quarters.

       The blame game on who should be responsible for the devastating floods plays a crucial role in determining the psychological impact of disasters on individuals.

       He said that based on a psychological reaction study on disasters, an incident which was seen as being caused by environmental factors (natural causes) were relatively easily acceptable by victims compared to disasters which were perceived as deliberate or due to the fault or the insensitive attitude of certain quarters.

       He also said that in the midst of emotional turmoil, words of comfort from family and close friends were generally appreciated.

       Dr Muhammad Najib said if the victim shows extreme anxiety symptoms such as screaming and prolonged or uncontrollable crying, immediate help should be given by trained volunteers such as counsellors, clinical psychologists or psychiatrists.

       So far, 872 volunteer counsellors registered with the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry have been deployed to seven flood-hit states.

       Some of the psychological consequences of stress include acute stress disorder (ASD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and adjustment disorder (AD).

       “ASD shares similar characteristics as PTSD. The main symptoms include flashbacks, upsetting nightmares, avoiding confronting some traumatic events, negative moods including depression and overly emotional panic, being easily shocked, memory loss and emotional numbness,” said Dr Muhammad Najib.

       Dr Shawaludin Husin, an occupational health doctor and president of the Malaysian Society for Occupational Safety and Health, said the floods also affected workers and employers.

       Besides the financial aspects that should be considered, given the enormity of the flood damage at home and at the workplace, such workers and employers may need more time to bounce back and return to normal.

       “For many victims, the recent flooding was unprecedented and caught them off-guard.

       “Some were traumatised after going through the ordeal as they were left hungry and cold for hours on the rooftop of their homes before the rescue teams arrived.

       “The first experience of having to stay at a flood evacuation centre (PPS) in the early stages of the floods... was also traumatic for victims who were uncomfortable with the new environment,” he said.

       Dr Shawaludin said this was where tolerance should be carefully fostered between staff and employer.

       “The employer could consider giving emergency or compassionate leave for staff while the employee should be ready to help the employer in helping the company bounce back.

       “Flood victims need comforting words and support from the community, family members and close friends.

       “Physical support, especially financial aid, is crucial.

       “What’s worrying is the psychological impact of the devastating floods could trigger larger conflicts if not properly managed. These include husband-wife fighting, abandoned children and stress at workplace for either employees or employers,” he said.