Do Natural Disasters Threaten the Mental Health of Young People?

Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, deeply disrupt the lives of young people aged 15 to 24. These events, increasingly frequent and intense due to climate change, leave lasting impacts far beyond material damage. Studies show that exposed adolescents often develop stress, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, or post-traumatic stress disorder. These issues can persist for years, especially without appropriate support.

Some young people are more vulnerable than others. Girls, older adolescents, those from disadvantaged backgrounds, or those who have lost a loved one or their home are particularly affected. Lack of family or social support and substance use also worsen these risks. Conversely, a united family, a quick return to school, and early psychological support can mitigate the consequences.

Resilience, often seen as an innate strength, is actually a complex process. It does not always guarantee lasting well-being but sometimes reflects forced adaptation to difficult conditions. Interventions must therefore go beyond mere symptom management. It is crucial to strengthen social bonds, provide accessible psychological support, and prepare schools and communities to support young people before, during, and after crises.

Health systems and public policies have a key role to play. Targeted programs in schools, mobile listening units for displaced individuals, and training for teachers and loved ones can make a difference. The goal is to turn these ordeals into opportunities for rebuilding, so that young people are not left alone to face the invisible impact of disasters.

Credits

Source Study

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40653-026-00853-y

Title: Effect of Natural Disasters on Youth Mental Health: A Systematic Review

Journal: Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Authors: Raquel María González García; Helal Uddin; Tatiana Cuartas-Álvarez; Esther González García; Nur A Habiba Mukta; Rafael Castro-Delgado