Mental Health in Emergencies

Conflicts, natural disasters, and other humanitarian crises exacerbate the risk of mental illnesses. Nearly all people affected by these emergencies will experience psychological distress, with, according to the World Health Organization, one in five having a mental illness. Post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia depression and anxiety are amongst mental health issues faced. It is more likely that older people and marginalized groups will develop mental health disorders. Stressful events such as violence and loss as well as poverty, discrimination, overcrowding, and food insecurity are common in emergencies and can increase the risk.