This theme will focus on the psychological, and social consequences of both natural (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, etc.) and man-made disasters (wars, terrorism, industrial accidents, etc.). It will explore how these events disrupt individuals, families, and communities, and how these impacts are experienced differently across cultural and social contexts.
Key topics: PTSD, anxiety, depression, social isolation, and community trauma.
Research focus: Individual and Community Mental health outcomes associated with natural vs. man-made disasters.
Climate change-induced disasters, such as extreme weather events, wildfires, and rising sea levels, are increasing in frequency and intensity. This theme will delve into the psychosocial consequences of these disasters, focusing on communities at the frontlines of climate change.
Key topics: Anxiety, eco-grief, displacement, migration, loss of livelihood, cultural identity, weakening of social ties, incidence of violence, aggression, suicide, sens eof isolation etc
Research focus: How climate change exacerbates existing mental health challenges and creates new vulnerabilities at individual, family, and community levels
Displacement, whether due to conflict, persecution, or environmental disasters, places individuals and families under severe psychological stress. This theme will examine the unique mental health challenges faced by migrants and refugees, and explore interventions that provide psychosocial support during migration and resettlement.
Key topics: Trauma related to forced displacement, resettlement stress, loss of identity, and building resilience among migrant populations.
Research focus: Developing culturally-sensitive mental health interventions for displaced populations.
Armed conflicts, internal violence, and war create complex environments for the survivors. This theme will address the mental health and psychosocial impacts of living in conflict zones, as well as the challenges and strategies for recovery and rebuilding in post-conflict settings.
• Key topics: Trauma recovery, rebuilding community support systems, addressing gender-based violence in conflict, and reintegration of ex-combatants.
• Research focus: Assessment of psychosocial and metnal health impact conflict and violence, psychosocial interventions in post-conflict areas, and lessons learned from conflict-related displacement.
Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the psychosocial impacts of disasters. This theme will focus on how disasters affect their development, emotional well-being, and future prospects, and explore the specific psychosocial support strategies required for this age group.
Key topics: Trauma-informed care for children, adolescent mental health post-disaster, educational disruption, and the role of play and expression in recovery.
Research focus: Evidence-based strategies for supporting young survivors of disasters and integrating mental health support into educational settings.
This theme will emphasize the importance of trauma-informed approaches in disaster response. It will explore psychological first aid, crisis intervention techniques, and the importance of mental health professionals being well-prepared to support disaster survivors.
Key topics: Psychological first-aid, Post traumatic stress disorder, pronged grief conditions, building resilience in first responders, and the integration of trauma-informed practices into disaster relief efforts.
Research focus: Psychological first aid for surviors and first responders, training of professionals in trauma-informed care, PTSD, Prolonged and Complicated Grief reactions, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems among survivors of disaster and traumatic events. Psychotheraputic interventions for suvivors of truamatic expereinces.
Community-based approaches are essential for fostering resilience and providing long-term psychosocial support. This theme will focus on building local capacity, empowering communities, and creating sustainable support systems that can respond to the mental health needs of disaster survivors.
Key topics: Community mobilization for mental health, peer support networks, and the role of community leaders in disaster response.
Research focus: Case studies on successful community-driven mental health interventions and resilience-building models.
This theme will explore the role of policy and advocacy in integrating mental health services into disaster management frameworks. It will discuss global and national policies, the allocation of resources, and the need for integration of mental health and psychosocial support as a priority in disaster planning and response.
Key topics: Advocacy strategies for mental health, policy frameworks for integrating MHPSS in disaster management planning and implementation, and ensuring equitable access to mental health care during crises.
Research focus: Policy level intervention for integration and shaping MHPSS during pre-disaster, during/immediate post-disaster and post-disaster programs and activties commissioned by various national and local govenment agencies
With the increasing use of digital tools and technologies, this theme will explore how innovations are being used to provide psychosocial support during disasters. Topics will include telehealth, mobile apps, and virtual mental health services for disaster survivors.
Key topics: Tele-therapy, online support platforms, mobile apps for mental health, and virtual communities for survivors.
Research focus: Evaluating the effectiveness of digital mental health tools and platforms in disaster response settings.
Often overlooked, disaster responders and humanitarian workers are exposed to high levels of stress and trauma. This theme will focus on the mental health needs of those who provide assistance, addressing burnout, secondary trauma, and strategies for maintaining well-being.
Key topics: The psychological toll on humanitarian workers, strategies for self-care, and creating supportive work environments for disaster responders.
Research focus: Assessing the mental health risks faced by disaster response teams and developing interventions to support their well-being.
