Suicidality After Natural Disasters

Abstract

Research on post-disaster suicidality has primarily focused on areas with substantial loss of lives and property damage. Cataclysmic events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and the recent events of COVID-19, have established associations with a rise in mental health disorders. Hurricanes weak the infrastructure and obstruct medical services. Earthquakes led to power outages and destruction of buildings, homes, and geological landmarks. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in detrimental loss of social interactions with effects on people’s mental health. This chapter will provide valuable information to identify and mitigate the incidence of suicidal behavior after natural disasters and provide effective assistance.