Medical expert says PSTD cases may increase following Japanese tsunami

Mar 29 2011

The Japanese tsunami took quite a massive toll, injuring and killing thousands and causing billions of dollars in destruction. But looking beyond physical destruction, the tsunami took an emotional toll on many as well. According to Dr. Gregory Jantz, author of "Moving Beyond Depression" and "Healing the Scars of Emotional Abuse" and founder of The Center for Counseling and Health Resources, cases of post-traumatic stress disorder are liable to be on the rise following the tsunami, particularly among already vulnerable adults and children.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder that often occurs in people who have seen or experienced a traumatic event that involved the threat of injury or death. PTSD sufferers re-experience the trauma, often through flashbacks and nightmares, which can lead to crippling social and mental results.

"As a result of the stress of the world economy, many adults are on the edge of an anxiety disorder. Children whom have been victims of emotional abuse are susceptible as well," says Dr. Jantz. "Feelings of powerlessness stemming from the tsunami are likely to trigger PTSD in many of these at-risk adults and children."

In addition, depression often coincides with PTSD, says Dr. Jantz. Short-term and long-term symptoms of depression include significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns, a loss of interest in formally enjoyable activities, feelings of restlessness and/or fatigue, inability to focus and increase irritability. Dr. Jantz offers a depression survey on The Center website for those who think they might be depressed.

Moreover, Dr. Jantz says a rise in addiction as a means to cope with the aftermath of the tsunami is very likely.

"In response to tragedy such as the Japanese tsunami, many turn to drug, alcohol and/or gambling to soothe feelings of helplessness, fear and anxiety," says Dr. Jantz.

For those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and addiction following the tsunami, The Center for Counseling and Health Resources in Edmonds, WA specializes in providing whole-person treatment to promote emotional, physical and spiritual healing.

Source: The Center for Counseling and Health Resources