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Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2022) | Viewed by 44691

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Masatsugu Orui

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
2. Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai 981-1504, Miyagi, Japan
Interests: disaster mental health; mental health supports for disaster victims; disaster epidemiology; descriptive epidemiology of suicide after disasters; suicide prevention measures in disaster-affected areas
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Daisuke Nishi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Interests: traumatic stress; resilience; mental health epidemiology; perinatal mental health
Dr. Takahashi Sho

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Disaster and Community Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
2. Ibaraki Prefectural Medical Center of Psychiatry, Kasama 309-1717, Japan
Interests: disaster mental health; mental health supports for disaster victims; acute mental health needs; post‐traumatic stress disorder; support for disaster workers; disaster assistance team
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

After the occurrence of any major natural or human-induced disaster, significant impacts on the mental health and psychological status of the, perhaps, thousands of evacuees and/or affected residents often emerge.

The Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE) occurred in March 2011. Subsequently, a massive tsunami and nuclear power plant accident forced the long-term evacuation of thousands of residents. The GEJE is but one of the large-scale disasters which have occurred intermittently and globally, e.g., earthquakes, hurricanes/typhoons, floods, and human-made disasters. Hence, in order to learn lessons and improve preparedness for upcoming disasters, the integration of global and national efforts to support disaster-related mental health activities and research is receiving more attention.

The editors of this Special Issue invite you to submit presentations of research regarding the risk and/or resilience factors among psychologically affected residents. Submissions regarding the preparation for any major disasters which may occur in the future, in terms of organized and informative disaster-related mental health practical activities (in particular, those which could be carried out during the hyper-acute and acute phases) are also invited, as well as meta-analytical studies and systematic review articles. More specifically, we welcome studies which can contribute to disaster-related mental health research with respect to response, recovery, and preparedness for upcoming disasters.

Dr. Masatsugu Orui
Dr. Daisuke Nishi
Dr. Takahashi Sho
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Disaster mental health
  • Posttraumatic stress
  • Psychosocial management after major disasters
  • Resilience
  • Posttraumatic growth
  • Disaster epidemiology
  • Support system for disaster workers Suicide prevention after major disasters

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Published Papers (16 papers)

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16 pages, 537 KiB  
Article
A Comparison of Mental Health among Earthquake, Tsunami, and Nuclear Power Plant Accident Survivors in the Long Term after the Great East Japan Earthquake
by Noriko Sodeyama, Sho Takahashi, Miyuki Aiba, Yayoi Haraguchi, Tetsuaki Arai and Hirokazu Tachikawa
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114072 - 28 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1310
Abstract
Even now, ten years after the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE), thousands of residents of Fukushima Prefecture are still living as evacuees. To understand the mental health states and needs for psychological care of the survivors, we conducted a questionnaire survey of survivors [...] Read more.
Even now, ten years after the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE), thousands of residents of Fukushima Prefecture are still living as evacuees. To understand the mental health states and needs for psychological care of the survivors, we conducted a questionnaire survey of survivors who were evacuated from Fukushima to Ibaraki due to the nuclear power plant accident and of the residents of two areas in Ibaraki where damage was particularly severe due to the tsunami or liquefaction. Our results show that stress related to participants’ hometowns and to the disaster was a risk factor for depression and post-traumatic stress among the survivors in the medium to long term in all regions examined. Other risk factors for post-traumatic stress differed by region. This study shows that in a complex disaster such as the GEJE, where damage is widespread, the causes of damage and the experiences of disaster survivors differ greatly from region to region and that risk factors for depression and post-traumatic stress among disaster survivors over the medium to long term may also differ. To provide appropriate care to disaster survivors, it is necessary to determine what is causing the risk of depression and post-traumatic stress at any given time and in specific regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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14 pages, 1329 KiB  
Article
When a Pandemic Strikes: Resilience of Swedish Academics in the Face of Coronavirus
by Önver Andreas Cetrez, Saeid Zandi and Fereshteh Ahmadi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13346; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013346 - 16 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1670
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic hit the world with severe health consequences, affecting some populations more than others. One understudied population is the academic community. This study, part of a larger project looking at COVID-19 in Sweden and internationally, aims to understand the individual [...] Read more.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic hit the world with severe health consequences, affecting some populations more than others. One understudied population is the academic community. This study, part of a larger project looking at COVID-19 in Sweden and internationally, aims to understand the individual and collective dimensions of resilience among academics in Sweden during the early wave of the pandemic. Method: A quantitative research design was applied for this cross-sectional study. We used simple random sampling, administered through an online survey, on academics at Swedish universities (n = 278, 64% women). We employed the CD-RISC 2 (the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale) to measure personal/individual resilience, additional items for social/collective resilience, and a meaning-making coping instrument (meaning, control, comfort/spirituality, intimacy/spirituality, life transformation). Results: The results revealed a strong level of personal/individual resilience among men (M = 6.05) and a level just below strong among women (M = 5.90). By age group, those 35–49-year-olds showed strong resilience (M = 6.31). Family was the dominant social/collective resilience factor, followed by friends, nature, work/school, and, lastly, religion/spirituality. There was a positive and significant correlation between self-rated health and personal/individual resilience (r = 0.252, p = 0.001) and positive but weak correlations and negative significant correlations between personal/individual resilience and religious coping methods. Conclusions: During the pandemic, the family took priority in meaning-making, which is an interesting change in a strong individual-oriented society such as Sweden. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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11 pages, 858 KiB  
Article
Utilization of Mental Health Support Systems in the Aftermath of Disasters in Japan: Statistical Data of the Miyagi Disaster Mental Health Care Center
by Naru Fukuchi and Shusaku Chiba
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10856; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710856 - 31 Aug 2022
Viewed by 1716
Abstract
Large-scale natural disasters have a significant effect on residents’ mental health. The Miyagi Disaster Mental Health Care Center (DMHCC) was established as a long-term mental health care center in response to the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (GEJE). Although six DMHCCs [...] Read more.
Large-scale natural disasters have a significant effect on residents’ mental health. The Miyagi Disaster Mental Health Care Center (DMHCC) was established as a long-term mental health care center in response to the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (GEJE). Although six DMHCCs have been established in Japan, their exact role and functioning are still unclear. This study aimed to explore which population used the center in each recovery phase. Logistic regression was performed to identify the residents’ characteristics according to the consultation pathways using the data collected by the Miyagi DMHCC. These data included personal information of the residents who were supported by the center from 2013 to 2018. The working-age unemployed men sought help by themselves, and the isolated older females were supported by home visits through the health survey. Long-term mental health care centers should observe community recovery and provide appropriate support. The implications of this result and future research directions are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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17 pages, 409 KiB  
Article
Mental Health Disturbance after a Major Earthquake in Northern Peru: A Preliminary, Cross-Sectional Study
by Mario J. Valladares-Garrido, Luis E. Zapata-Castro, Helena Domínguez-Troncos, Abigaíl García-Vicente, Darwin A. León-Figueroa, J. Pierre Zila-Velasque, Pamela Grados-Espinoza, David Astudillo-Rueda, C. Ichiro Peralta and Cristian Díaz-Vélez
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8357; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148357 - 8 Jul 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2863
Abstract
Little has been studied in Peru on the mental health repercussions after a major earthquake. We aimed to explore the factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in people who experienced a 6.1 magnitude earthquake in Piura, Peru, on 30 July 2021. A [...] Read more.
Little has been studied in Peru on the mental health repercussions after a major earthquake. We aimed to explore the factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in people who experienced a 6.1 magnitude earthquake in Piura, Peru, on 30 July 2021. A preliminary cross-sectional study was conducted in the general population between August–September 2021. An online questionnaire was provided using PHQ-9, GAD-7, and other relevant measures. Generalized linear models were applied. Of the 177 participants, the median age was 22 years, the majority were female (56%), and many experienced depressive (52%) or anxiety symptoms (52%). Presence of depressive symptoms was associated with a personal history of mental disorder, moderate housing damage, social/material support from politicians, moderate food insecurity, and insomnia. Presence of anxiety symptoms was associated with physical injury caused by the earthquake, mild food insecurity, and insomnia. The development of depressive and anxiety symptoms following the 2021 earthquake experienced in Piura depended on multiple individual and socioeconomic factors. Additional studies should reinforce the factors identified here given the methodological limitations, such as the study design, sampling method, and sample size. This would lead to effective intervention measures to mitigate the impact of earthquakes on mental health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
10 pages, 311 KiB  
Article
Posttraumatic Growth after the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster: Examination of Free Descriptions among Fukushima Residents Who Lived in the Evacuation Area
by Hajime Iwasa, Chihiro Nakayama, Nobuaki Moriyama, Masatsugu Orui and Seiji Yasumura
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010192 - 24 Dec 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2233
Abstract
We examined the differences in the posttraumatic growth (PTG) free descriptions from clusters of Fukushima residents (evacuation and non-evacuation zones) who experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, and the relationship between “recovery from radiation anxiety” and the PTG-free description classification in these regions. [...] Read more.
We examined the differences in the posttraumatic growth (PTG) free descriptions from clusters of Fukushima residents (evacuation and non-evacuation zones) who experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, and the relationship between “recovery from radiation anxiety” and the PTG-free description classification in these regions. A mail survey was conducted in August 2016 among Fukushima residents aged 20–79 years for free descriptions of their PTG. Participants were then divided into the “no anxiety,” “recovered from anxiety,” and “unrecovered from anxiety” groups based on their “recovery from radiation anxiety.” Data from 786 responses were analyzed. The PTG-free descriptions were classified into eight categories. Among those who lived in the evacuation zone versus those in the non-evacuation zone, “relating to others” (non-evacuation zone: 11.9% vs. evacuation zone: 18.4%) and “appreciation of life” (non-evacuation zone: 2.7% vs. evacuation zone: 9.8%) were significantly higher, and “increased awareness of disaster prevention” (non-evacuation zone: 20.4% vs. evacuation zone: 8.0%) was significantly lower. In the evacuation zone, “renewed recognition of nuclear issues” was significantly lower than the expected value in the no anxiety group (3.1%) and significantly higher than the expected value in the recovered group (22.9%). Further studies are needed to build support measures and potentially aid in preparing for future disasters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
16 pages, 1961 KiB  
Article
Acute-Stage Mental Health Symptoms by Natural Disaster Type: Consultations of Disaster Psychiatric Assistance Teams (DPATs) in Japan
by Yoshifumi Takagi, Sho Takahashi, Yasuhisa Fukuo, Tetsuaki Arai and Hirokazu Tachikawa
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(23), 12409; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312409 - 25 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1994
Abstract
This study analyzed the support activities that the Disaster Psychiatric Assistance Team (DPAT) in Japan provided following four previous disasters (a volcanic eruption, a mudslide, a flood, and an earthquake) to identify links between the disaster type and the characteristics of acute stage [...] Read more.
This study analyzed the support activities that the Disaster Psychiatric Assistance Team (DPAT) in Japan provided following four previous disasters (a volcanic eruption, a mudslide, a flood, and an earthquake) to identify links between the disaster type and the characteristics of acute stage mental disorders observed. Using Disaster Mental Health Information Support System database records of consultations with patients supported by the DPAT during the survey period from 2013 (when DPAT was launched) to 2016, we performed cross-tabulations and investigated significant differences using chi-squared tests. For expected values less than 5, Fisher’s exact test was performed. Frequently occurring acute-stage symptoms after a disaster include anxiety, sleep problems, mood and affect, and physical symptoms. The affected population characteristics, victim attributes, severity of damage sustained, and evacuation status were the chief factors that influenced acute-stage mental health symptoms. The psychiatric symptoms detected in our study together with the results of diagnoses are important for determining the types of early interventions needed during the acute stage of a disaster. By sharing baseline mental health information, together with disaster-related characteristics highlighted in this study, mental health providers are better able to predict future possible mental disorders and symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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16 pages, 1301 KiB  
Article
Those Who Have Continuing Radiation Anxiety Show High Psychological Distress in Cases of High Post-Traumatic Stress: The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster
by Masatsugu Orui, Chihiro Nakayama, Nobuaki Moriyama, Masaharu Tsubokura, Kiyotaka Watanabe, Takeo Nakayama, Minoru Sugita and Seiji Yasumura
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 12048; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182212048 - 17 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1886
Abstract
Background: this cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the associations among media utilization, lifestyles, and the strong radiation anxiety that has persisted 9 years after the 2011 nuclear accident. Moreover, the relationships among psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, and strong radiation anxiety were examined. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: this cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the associations among media utilization, lifestyles, and the strong radiation anxiety that has persisted 9 years after the 2011 nuclear accident. Moreover, the relationships among psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, and strong radiation anxiety were examined. Methods: for the multivariate regression analysis, the independent variables were radiation anxiety at the time of the accident and the current status, categorized as “continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety”. Media utilization (local, national, internet, and public broadcasts, and public relations information) and lifestyle variables (sleep quality, regular exercise, and drinking habits) were set as the dependent variables. Moreover, the psychological distress of residents with continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety was examined by an analysis of covariance stratified by post-traumatic stress. Result: there was no significant association between lifestyle variables and media utilization, except for local media (OR: 0.435, 95% CI: 0.21–0.90). Conversely, significantly high psychological distress was confirmed among residents with continuing/emerging radiation anxiety. The K6 score, representing psychological distress, for those with higher post-traumatic stress was 12.63; for those with lower post-traumatic stress, it was 5.13 (p = 0.004). Conclusions: residents with continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety showed high psychological distress, which has been strengthened by higher post-traumatic stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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11 pages, 687 KiB  
Article
Exploring Socio-Demographic Factors Affecting Psychological Symptoms in Humidifier Disinfectant Survivors
by Hye-Yun Ko, Seung-Hun Ryu, Min-Joo Lee, Hun-Ju Lee, Soo-Young Kwon, Seong-Mi Kim and Sang-Min Lee
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 11811; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182211811 - 11 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1466
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the psychological symptoms of humidifier disinfectant survivors to the general population and explore socio-demographic factors influencing survivors’ psychological symptoms. A one-way Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and a series of two-way MANCOVA were conducted with a sample of [...] Read more.
This study aimed to compare the psychological symptoms of humidifier disinfectant survivors to the general population and explore socio-demographic factors influencing survivors’ psychological symptoms. A one-way Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and a series of two-way MANCOVA were conducted with a sample of 228 humidifier disinfectant survivors and 228 controls. The results demonstrated that the survivor group displayed higher anxious/depressed symptoms, withdrawn symptoms, somatic complaints, thought problems, attention problems, aggressive behavior and rule-breaking behavior than the general group. Moreover, among the socio-demographic factors, the two-way interaction effects of group × family economic status and group × number of friends were found to be statistically significant. The limitations and implications of this study are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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14 pages, 1192 KiB  
Article
Practical Report of Disaster-Related Mental Health Interventions Following the Great East Japan Earthquake during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Potential for Suicide Prevention
by Masatsugu Orui, Suzuka Saeki, Shuichiro Harada and Mizuho Hayashi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(19), 10424; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910424 - 3 Oct 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2306
Abstract
Background: This practical report aims to publicize the ongoing disaster-related mental health interventions following the Great East Japan Earthquake during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Disaster-related mental health interventions consisted of: (1) screening high-risk evacuees with high psychological distress (Kessler 6 score [...] Read more.
Background: This practical report aims to publicize the ongoing disaster-related mental health interventions following the Great East Japan Earthquake during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Disaster-related mental health interventions consisted of: (1) screening high-risk evacuees with high psychological distress (Kessler 6 score ≥ 13) or binge drinking; and (2) visiting selected high-risk individuals and providing them counseling through outreach in evacuee housing. These activity records were compiled from existing material in the Sendai City Office; therefore, no new interviews or questionnaire surveys were conducted. Results: During the COVID-19 pandemic, we introduced telephone counseling and shortened the time of support as a result of the restrictions. Counselors addressed issues of “loneliness” or “isolation” among evacuees, who had little connection with society due to the pandemic. Moreover, the procedure for obtaining COVID-19 special financial aid was explained to evacuees in financial difficulty. During this period, the suicide rates in the affected area did not increase significantly as compared to the national average. Conclusions: Our report may be instructive in terms of preventing suicide during the pandemic using high-risk approaches and counselors trained in disaster-related mental health interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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10 pages, 497 KiB  
Article
Vulnerability of Evacuees Having No One to Consult after the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster: The Fukushima Health Management Survey
by Naoko Horikoshi, Masaharu Maeda, Mayumi Harigane, Hajime Iwasa, Michio Murakami, Maho Momoi, Saori Goto and Seiji Yasumura
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(19), 10075; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910075 - 25 Sep 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1836
Abstract
After the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in 2011, caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake, some evacuees had no one to consult despite many local care providers offering assistance. This study identified the characteristics of individuals who did not receive [...] Read more.
After the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in 2011, caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake, some evacuees had no one to consult despite many local care providers offering assistance. This study identified the characteristics of individuals who did not receive consultations and the relevant determinants, and proposed the available measures to address this issue. Altogether, 32,699 participants aged 16 years or older and residing in the disaster area at Fukushima were surveyed. Those with no one to consult showed a significantly higher prevalence of psychological distress (16.2%, p < 0.001) and drinking problems (21.5%, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that these behaviors were associated with the middle age group (i.e., 40–64 years old) (odds ratio [OR]: 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–1.46), men (OR = 2.46; 95% CI, 2.27–2.66), bad financial circumstances (OR = 2.11; 95% CI, 1.96–2.27), and living alone (OR = 1.53; 95% CI, 1.39–1.68). This research verifies that people with such characteristics were more likely to be isolated and vulnerable to psychiatric problems, such as depression. We suggest that it is integral for local care providers to recognize those who have no one to consult and provide targeted support. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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14 pages, 614 KiB  
Article
Public School Trauma Intervention for School Shootings: A National Survey of School Leaders
by Bree Alexander
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(15), 7727; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18157727 - 21 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 7448
Abstract
Trauma intervention in United States’ (U.S.) public schools is varied. The occurrence of public-school shootings across the U.S. elicits questions related to how public schools currently address and provide resources related to trauma for employees and students. A randomized, national survey of public-school [...] Read more.
Trauma intervention in United States’ (U.S.) public schools is varied. The occurrence of public-school shootings across the U.S. elicits questions related to how public schools currently address and provide resources related to trauma for employees and students. A randomized, national survey of public-school teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators was conducted to gather information on public-school preparedness for response to trauma. Findings indicated that only 16.9% of respondents indicated their schools have trauma or crisis plans that address issues related to school shootings. Furthermore, public schools use a variety of strategies to address trauma, but teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators were often unsure about the effectiveness of these trauma interventions in the event of school shootings. Implications for findings suggest methods to enhance next steps in the area of trauma response to school shootings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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15 pages, 386 KiB  
Article
COVID-Related Concerns, the Need for Help, and Perceived Microaggression among Young Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Respondents in Israel
by Faiga Weiden, Michal Levinsky, Miriam Schiff, Nati Becker, Ruth Pat-Horenczyk and Rami Benbenishty
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126445 - 14 Jun 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2358
Abstract
Minority groups are especially vulnerable to the negative psychological and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study focused on one prominent minority group in Israel: ultra-Orthodox Jews. It examined the rate of exposure to COVID-19, adherence to COVID-19 mitigation guidelines, difficulties with [...] Read more.
Minority groups are especially vulnerable to the negative psychological and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study focused on one prominent minority group in Israel: ultra-Orthodox Jews. It examined the rate of exposure to COVID-19, adherence to COVID-19 mitigation guidelines, difficulties with adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, COVID-related concerns, financial hardships, the need for help, and microaggression during the first wave of the pandemic (April–May 2020). It then examined multivariate prediction of COVID-related concerns, the need for help, and microaggression. The sample comprised 252 respondents, with 67% female and a mean age of 32.85 (SD = 10.63). Results showed that 78.8% of the participants knew at least one person who had tested positive for COVID-19, and 31.4% knew at least one person who had passed away from COVID-19. Only 59.7% of the participants reported high adherence to social distancing guidelines. Perceived microaggression was predicted by the difficulties with adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, the level of stress associated with exposure to the media, and financial hardships. The study’s implications point to the centrality of perceived microaggression and the necessity of adopting culturally sensitive approaches to engage minorities in public efforts to fight the spread of viruses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
10 pages, 871 KiB  
Article
Trends in Suicide Mortality in 10 Years around the Great East Japan Earthquake: Analysis of Evacuation and Non-Evacuation Areas in Fukushima Prefecture
by Yujiro Kuroda, Masatsugu Orui and Arinobu Hori
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(11), 6005; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18116005 - 3 Jun 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2463
Abstract
This study analyzed the suicide mortality rate in 12 municipalities in Fukushima Prefecture designated as evacuation areas following the 2011 nuclear disaster. Changes in suicide rates were examined using an exponential smoothing time series model. In the evacuation areas, the suicide rate of [...] Read more.
This study analyzed the suicide mortality rate in 12 municipalities in Fukushima Prefecture designated as evacuation areas following the 2011 nuclear disaster. Changes in suicide rates were examined using an exponential smoothing time series model. In the evacuation areas, the suicide rate of men increased immediately after the disaster and then decreased from 47.8 to 23.1 per 100,000 during about 1½ years after the disaster. However, with the lifting of the evacuation order, it again exceeded that of non-evacuation areas and continued to do so for the next 3 years. On the other hand, the suicide rate in women in the evacuation areas increased later than that in men. These results indicate the need for continuous support following the lifting of the evacuation order. In addition, it is necessary to enhance social networks, which continue to confer protection, because of the isolation of the elderly as highlighted in our previous study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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14 pages, 403 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 Lockdown and Mental Health in a Sample Population in Spain: The Role of Self-Compassion
by María Elena Gutiérrez-Hernández, Luisa Fernanda Fanjul, Alicia Díaz-Megolla, Pablo Reyes-Hurtado, Jonay Francisco Herrera-Rodríguez, María del Pilar Enjuto-Castellanos and Wenceslao Peñate
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 2103; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042103 - 21 Feb 2021
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5655
Abstract
Previous data support that mental health is affected during pandemic and lockdown situations. Yet, little is known about the positive factors that protect mental health during a lockdown. This study analyzed mental health status—particularly emotional problems—and the role of several sociodemographic and clinical [...] Read more.
Previous data support that mental health is affected during pandemic and lockdown situations. Yet, little is known about the positive factors that protect mental health during a lockdown. This study analyzed mental health status—particularly emotional problems—and the role of several sociodemographic and clinical variables; it also explored whether there is a positive relationship between self-compassion and better mental health status. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Spain with the participation of 917 fluent Spanish-speaking residents in a survey conducted approximately midway through the COVID-19 lockdown. The survey tested for anxiety, depression, and stress using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) to measure self-compassion values, and the Perceived Vulnerability to Disease Questionnaire (PVDQ) to assess the degree of risk perceived by participants. Around 30% of the individuals surveyed (recruited by snowball sampling) showed clinically significant levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. The variables most frequently associated with anxiety, depression, and stress were low levels of self-compassion, age, gender, previous physical symptoms, a previous mental disorder, being a student, and perceived vulnerability to disease. We discuss the hypothetical protective role against anxiety, depression, and stress of certain skills such as self-compassion and the possibility that increasing self-compassion may be used to promote better mental health in similar situations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
14 pages, 1121 KiB  
Article
Current Psychological Distress, Post-traumatic Stress, and Radiation Health Anxiety Remain High for Those Who Have Rebuilt Permanent Homes Following the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster
by Masatsugu Orui, Chihiro Nakayama, Nobuaki Moriyama, Masaharu Tsubokura, Kiyotaka Watanabe, Takeo Nakayama, Minoru Sugita and Seiji Yasumura
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(24), 9532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249532 - 19 Dec 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3112
Abstract
Objective: The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011 produced psychological reactions among evacuees. Despite the harsh situation, subsequently, there has been gradual progress in reconstruction, with more than half of the evacuees returning after the evacuation. Our hypothesis is that evacuee mental health [...] Read more.
Objective: The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011 produced psychological reactions among evacuees. Despite the harsh situation, subsequently, there has been gradual progress in reconstruction, with more than half of the evacuees returning after the evacuation. Our hypothesis is that evacuee mental health will now be better due to new stable living conditions. This study aims to clarify the statuses of psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, and radiation health anxiety among evacuees who have rebuilt permanent homes after evacuation. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 1600 residents was conducted in 2020. As primary outcomes, the survey measured psychological distress (Kessler 6), post-traumatic stress (post-traumatic stress four-item checklist), and radiation health anxiety. The data are compared for residents who have rebuilt permanent home and those who did not evacuate. Results: In the co-variant analysis, the statuses of psychological distress (p < 0.001), post-traumatic stress (p < 0.001), and radiation health anxiety (p < 0.001) are found to still be high, with significant differences when compared to those who did not evacuate. These results are still at an equivalent level for the continuing evacuation. Conclusion: Our findings may indicate a necessity for continuing disaster-related mental health activities even though the living conditions have improved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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Review

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19 pages, 546 KiB  
Review
Suicide and Suicide Prevention Activities Following the Great East Japan Earthquake 2011: A Literature Review
by Masatsugu Orui
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10906; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710906 - 1 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2122
Abstract
Background: Since the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE), numerous studies have been conducted, but no comprehensive review study has been carried out. Thus, this literature review aimed to examine how the GEJE might affect suicide and suicidal behaviors from a long-term perspective. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Since the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE), numerous studies have been conducted, but no comprehensive review study has been carried out. Thus, this literature review aimed to examine how the GEJE might affect suicide and suicidal behaviors from a long-term perspective. Methods: For the literature review, a search of electronic databases was carried out to find articles written in English and in Japanese that were related to suicide and its risk factors, as well as suicide prevention activities following the GEJE. Thirty-two articles were then selected for the review. Results: There were several findings, as follows: (1) gender differences in suicide rates in the affected area: nationwide, the suicide rates in men showed a delayed increase, whereas suicide rates in women increased temporarily immediately after the GEJE; (2) the suicide rates increased again in the recovery phase; (3) the background of the suicides was linked to both disaster-related experiences, and indirect reasons pertaining to the GEJE; and (4) intensive intervention combined with a high-risk and community-focused approach could prevent suicides following the disaster. Conclusions: Although further accumulation of knowledge about suicide and suicide prevention is essential, these findings can contribute to response, recovery, and preparedness in relation to future disasters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Disaster: Response, Recovery, and Preparedness for the Future)
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