The devastating effects of this latest disaster to have struck
South Asia have shocked us deeply.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathy, of course, are with those
in Pakistan and India, but also in the UK, who have lost members of
their families and friends. On behalf of the Royal College of
Psychiatrists we have pledged our support and offered assistance to
organisations and individuals involved in relief efforts.
Although the mental health consequences of this type of
tragedy will not become apparent for a while, we can expect that
the number of those with PTSD or suffering from grief or requiring
a wide range of short, medium and long term psychological responses
will be substantial.
As psychiatrists, we have a particular responsibility and
ability to respond to these needs. Whenever required, we would
happily be guided by our colleagues in the affected region and
sister organisations in Pakistan and India to provide the
appropriate and effective help with the longer-term psychological
consequences. We would appreciate if College members actively
involved in relief efforts keep us informed of developments.
We have created this page to provide a dedicated space on our
website where relevant information can be disseminated, projects
discussed, progress reported and ideas exchanged. Please feel free
to contact the International Manager
Joanna Carroll with your
comments and feedback.
If you have relevant experience in disaster work or
trauma counseling and would like to get involved in projects
supported by the College our volunteers programme provides the
means to match College members with relevant skills and experience
with overseas institutions and projects looking such expertise.
Please visit our volunteers programme page for further information
and to register.
With our very best wishes,
Sheila Hollins
President
Hamid Ghodse
Director of International Affairs
2 November 2005