On the relativity of the mental health consequences of disasters

In his thesis, Michel Dückers discusses comparative country studies that offer insights into: 

• the link between trauma-related mental health problems 
• cultural characteristics of populations 
• countries’ vulnerability to major disruptions and disasters 
• professional capacity to provide psychosocial aftercare  

Quality of aftercare following disasters and crises  

The thesis also focuses on the quality of aftercare following disasters and crises. Is there consensus among experts and professionals on guidelines and the extent to which psychosocial aftercare principles are applied in a disaster context? What do such recommendations and principles mean from a quality improvement and crisis management perspective? Dückers reflects on these and other questions and interprets them in the light of country studies.   

Vulnerability paradox  

Dückers deduces that, in our safe, well-organised countries with good healthcare systems and high life expectancy, we are more susceptible to PTSD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance use and abuse, and to suicide. 'Perhaps we have higher expectations about life in our organised, predictable society. Perhaps we as people have become less accustomed to the kind of setbacks that are commonplace in more vulnerable countries like Nigeria or Haiti. The Netherlands invariably tops every list of any significance. Paradoxically, also with regard to mental health problems. At the same time, by international comparison, we have a high-quality, accessible healthcare system with many skilled professionals.'  

Translating guidelines to Dutch practice  

Ultimately, this knowledge will help governments and professionals tailor guidelines more effectively to the Dutch context. Dutch guidelines and standards are currently largely based on knowledge derived from research in other countries. Insight into contextual differences is indispensable to the translation to Dutch practice. Furthermore, the thesis emphasises how little was yet known in 2019 about the effect of aftercare programmes on the health and well-being of those affected after disasters.