“Humanitarian aid is of utter significance”
Psychological Counseling and Guidance Center (PCGC) of Cyprus International University(CIU) released a written statement following the earthquake that devastated Kahramanmaraş with Pazarcık in the epicenter. It was pointed out that both North Cyprus and Turkey have been undergoing very difficult times, adding humanitarian aid reinforced by psychosocial support carries utter significance during such times and will help alleviate the effects of this “invisible wound.”
The importance of being understanding toward individuals who want to share their pain, and to create a space for them to be able to speak freely was pointed out in the statement released. It was also noted that individuals who will be providing this support need not be professionals and that showing empathy, listening and establishing bonds are the key factors in giving comfort to these earthquake victims.
In the statement, attention was also drawn to what needs to be done under such circumstances: "To be honest, sincere and reliable, to notice if you have any prejudices, to observe privacy and basic needs, not to establish physical contact with people unless they want it, to have a respectful, warm attitude, to pay attention to facial expressions. It is important to make them feel they are cared for, to have the courage to ask for what they need, to let them mourn and grieve for the loss of those around them.”
In addition, information was given regarding what should not be done or how individuals should not act during this process; these are namely: "Making false promises, giving misleading information, forcing, asking for details, violating privacy; listening without judging, criticizing, interrupting, and interpreting (like you have to be strong, calm down, could have been worse), and should not be told to act alone, or told what/how to feel and what/how to think.”
Director of the PCGC Assist. Prof. Dr. Eliz Volkan emphasized the fact that trauma is generally associated with physical injuries, but after a disaster such as an earthquake, people can also experience psychological trauma. Psychological, or emotional trauma, is the reaction of individuals after living through an extremely frightening or distressing event.
Pointing out that it is important to help earthquake victims especially children by listening to them, comforting, reassuring, helping them return to routine patterns of life and also making them feel secure, Volkan also expressed that it would be beneficial to appreciate them, not to neglect them and to provide them with opportunities to play.
Volkan also made recommendations for adults during this time of healing; advising individuals to give importance to their health, spare some time for themselves, continue their daily activities, share their feelings and thoughts, and spend time with family members and friends.
While pointing out that making quick decisions should be avoided, Volkan also suggested that exposure especially to media and social media should be reduced.