China: Emotional needs enormous as people come to grips with life after the earthquake

21.05.08 - 22:10 ... source : International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

... 21 May 2008 Many survivors in Sichuan province - still nervous a week after a massive earthquake struck the region - are sleeping outside tonight worried by the latest reports of another possible major 6 or 7 magnitude aftershock striking the area, according to the local seismological bureau. With more than 40,000 dead and 4.8 million people left homeless, survivors are facing the daunting task of dealing with the emotional impact of the earthquake. "Many people have lost so much - their loved ones, homes, and their livelihoods. Coupled with fears of another earthquake and an uncertain future, the psychosocial needs for are enormous," says Amgaa Oyungerel, regional health delegate for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Chengdu. "Supporting the emotional recovery of survivors is urgently needed and the Red Cross is incorporating this support through ...» Next (HTML)