Floods and storm Daniel devastated the city of Derna in Libya, leaving behind an unprecedented human and material disaster. With more than 4,000 dead and many missing, the city of 100,000 inhabitants was hit hard, leaving behind a landscape of destruction and desolation.
In this article, we are interested in the psychological trauma suffered by the inhabitants of Derna after this disaster. Special correspondents Nissim Gasteli and Madjid Zerrouki, from Le Monde Afrique, produced a report highlighting the psychological distress of the victims.
The reporter, Christophe Châtelot, testifies to the conditions faced by the inhabitants of Derna. The city center is emptied of its inhabitants, more than a third destroyed by floods. The pain and sorrow are palpable, and the psychological distress is omnipresent. Residents are plunged into a phase of acute post-traumatic stress, living with constant fear of new natural disasters.
The psychological after-effects are invisible, but very real. Survivors must deal with feelings of sadness, anxiety and anger. The trauma experienced during the storm left deep marks, affecting the mental health and well-being of residents.
In these moments of desolation, solidarity and mutual aid are essential to help overcome the tragedies. NGOs and local organizations are mobilizing to provide psychological and emotional support to disaster victims, providing a safe space to express their emotions and find a way to rebuild.
It is crucial that the international community pays particular attention to the psychological consequences of natural disasters. Psychological trauma can have a long-term impact on the health and well-being of affected individuals and communities. Appropriate resources and services must be put in place to support the healing and resilience of affected populations.
In conclusion, the floods and storm Daniel left a real psychological trauma in the city of Derna in Libya. The residents’ distress is deep and lasting, requiring appropriate psychological support to enable full recovery. Solidarity and mutual aid are essential to help these populations rebuild themselves and find the strength to continue despite the challenges.