Doctors Recommend Ways to Heal Mentally After Southern Floods Subside

Although floodwaters in some parts of southern Thailand have started to recede, victims now face losses of both property and close individuals. Therefore, mental healing is extremely important, especially for those in high-risk areas or who must cope with repeated disasters.

1. Stay calm, check your emotions, and manage your feelings.

When the body and brain remain in survival mode for a prolonged period, stress inevitably occurs. Observing personal signs—such as zoning out, repetitive thoughts, or irritability—helps us prepare better. Initial mental care should start by accepting one’s feelings and current state. Allowing yourself to feel sadness without denying reality helps you cope more effectively with the challenges.

2. Talk, listen attentively, and support each other during crises.

Human relationships—and even bonds with pets—can heal the mind and help overcome suffering during crises. Paying attention to others, offering a listening ear, and sharing positive feelings—whether through conversations with close ones or helping others when possible—prevent the sense of facing problems alone.

3. Practice breathing exercises to reduce stress and calm the mind.

Typically, stress causes faster, shallower breathing. Training yourself to breathe slowly and deeply increases oxygen to the brain, clearing the mind. The human body naturally strives to survive, and proper breathing exercises are a simple way to manage mental distress when facing hardship, as follows:

1. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and place your hands on your abdomen.
2. Inhale slowly while counting 1 to 4, feeling your belly expand.
3. Hold your breath while counting to 4.
4. Exhale slowly, counting to 8, emptying your lungs fully and feeling your belly contract.
5. Repeat this cycle about 4-5 times until you feel calm.

Besides relieving stress, breathing exercises improve concentration, prepare the mind, and boost energy.

4. Consult experts and seek help.

If stress or anxiety persists despite these practices, talking to professionals such as psychiatrists or psychologists is crucial. They can help manage emotions and provide systematic solutions.

Natural disasters are unavoidable, but quickly regaining composure to handle stress, seeing hope, and believing in solutions are the most effective ways to recover and overcome crises. When the heart is cared for, we can move forward with strength.

Article by Dr. Chanikan Anuwatkasem, World Medical Center (WMC).