How to Deal with the Negative Effects of Earthquake Devastation

Powerful scenes emerge from Turkey and Syria as the region reels from one of its most powerful earthquakes ever recorded.

Pictures, videos, and stories depict the experiences of the earthquake and the aftermath that resulted in great loss and destruction.

These horrific exposures can harm our mental health. There are plenty of things that can be done to improve mental health and help prevent mental health issues.

Try these tips to maintain balanced mental health.

- Avoid repeated exposure to the scenes and stories.

- Leave social media for a while in order not to be immersed in the details published online.

- Donations, big or small, are still essential in these natural disasters.

Giving money can have a positive impact on your mood. However, donations should be given to known charitable organizations.

- Converse with your family and listen to what they have to say.

Venting help alleviates stress, but you have to be careful that the discussion does not take a dark turn.

The talk needs to have a positive side and present positive stories and details to cultivate a positive mindset.

- If you have a child, chitchat with them and find out what they heard and comprehended from the events and how it was affecting them.

Explain to them that they are not responsible for the disaster that occurred. Be sure to talk to them reassuringly, particularly during bedtime by telling inspiring stories to pull them from their slump and make them smile and be inspired.

Contributed by Yara Sameh