Most of the initial help and relief efforts to the earthquake-stricken are meant to aid the survival, rehabilitation of the living and reconstruction of buildings and infrastructure. However, earthquakes are natural disasters, which, in addition to the physical destruction and death, cause serious psychological consequences for those that survive. Exposure to earthquakes has been associated with psychological distress and in particular the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychological treatments that have been proven to reduce anxiety, fear and PTSD symptoms need to be made available to the earthquake survivors. This approach may also increase the survivors’ psychological preparedness and resilience in view of future earthquakes.
Keywords: Earthquake, psychology, rehabilitation