Preconference Workshop on Managing Grief Reactions in Natural Disasters
Date: 9th October 2025
Time: 09:00 AM – 01:00 PM
Venue: National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru

About the Workshop

Grief and loss are profound experiences that impact individuals and families exposed to natural disasters. The emotional, psychological, and social effects of such experiences can be long-lasting if not addressed effectively. This preconference workshop aims to equip mental health professionals, first responders, social workers, and community leaders with the necessary skills and strategies to manage grief reactions among affected populations.

Objectives of the Workshop:

  • Understanding grief responses in individuals and communities following natural disasters.
  • Identifying psychological first aid and immediate interventions.
  • Exploring culturally sensitive approaches to bereavement support.
  • Developing resilience and coping mechanisms among affected individuals.
  • Providing hands-on training in evidence-based grief counseling techniques.

Who Should Attend?

  • Mental health professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, social workers)
  • Disaster response teams and first responders
  • NGO workers engaged in disaster relief
  • Healthcare professionals
  • Researchers and academicians interested in disaster mental health

Program Schedule

09:00 AM – 09:30 AM
Registration and Inaugural Address
Welcome note and brief introduction to the workshop.

09:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Session 1: Understanding Grief and Trauma in Natural Disasters

  • Speaker: Dr. [Name], Expert in Disaster Mental Health
  • Types of grief reactions and their psychological impact.
  • Case studies of grief responses from past disasters.

10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Session 2: Psychological First Aid and Immediate Interventions

  • Speaker: Dr. [Name], Clinical Psychologist
  • Strategies for providing psychological first aid.
  • Recognizing risk factors for complicated grief.

11:15 AM – 11:30 AM
Tea Break

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM
Session 3: Culturally Sensitive Approaches to Bereavement Support

  • Speaker: Dr. [Name], Trauma and Grief Specialist
  • Understanding cultural influences on grief and mourning.
  • Incorporating community and religious practices in grief interventions.

12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
Session 4: Resilience and Coping Strategies for Affected Individuals

  • Speaker: Dr. [Name], Psychosocial Rehabilitation Expert
  • Building long-term coping mechanisms in disaster-affected communities.
  • Role of self-care for caregivers and mental health professionals.

12:45 PM – 01:00 PM
Panel Discussion & Closing Remarks
Q&A session with all speakers followed by concluding remarks.

Registration Details

  • Registration Fee: Free (limited seats available)
  • Deadline for Registration: 30th September 2025
  • For registration and queries, contact: [Email] | [Phone Number]

Join us in this critical discussion and skill-building workshop to enhance your ability to support those affected by natural disasters.