Measuring the Severity of Mental Health Problems Faced by Flood Victimized Individuals in Different Areas of South Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The current study was carried out to address the severity of mental health problems among flood victimized individuals in different areas of South Punjab, Pakistan. This was a quantitative study with cross-sectional research design. A sample of (N=409) flood victims was recruited by using multi-stage sampling technique. Data was collected by using three valid and reliable scales. The results from the collected data revealed that the severity of mental health issues differ in different areas of Pakistan. The results reported that the severity of PTSD was higher in over all areas, but it was more severe in Rajanpur and Taunsa Sharif. On the other hand, level of depression was higher among the flood victimized individuals in Dera Ghazi Khan and Taunsa Sharif. Similarly, the anxiety and stress were higher in Taunsa Sharif and Rajanpur. On the basis of the findings from this study, it is suggested that the authorities should start creative steps in the nominated areas as this study revealed in order to decrease the severity of mental health problems and to promote the mental wellbeing of the flood victimized.