Following the major earthquake that struck Thailand on March 28, 2025, I have seen several patients—both those I have been treating and new ones—who are experiencing unusual physical and emotional symptoms in the aftermath of the disaster.
Some of these symptoms raise concerns about the potential development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a condition commonly seen after traumatic events like earthquakes.
I believe there are many more survivors who are experiencing symptoms but have not yet sought help.
That’s why I’m writing this article—to offer knowledge about self-care and ways to prevent these symptoms from becoming chronic.
❓❓ Experiencing these symptoms—does it mean you’re abnormal, weak, or simply overthinking?
Several patients have shared their worries with me. They wonder why they are struggling while some of their friends or colleagues seem unaffected.
Does this mean there’s something wrong with them psychologically? Are they weak?
I want to reassure you: experiencing anxiety after an earthquake is not a sign of weakness or abnormality. In Thailand, where earthquakes are rare, many of us may not be familiar with the psychological effects they can cause.
However, research from other countries shows that these symptoms are actually quite common, especially in places where earthquakes are infrequent.
Research has found that within the first nine months after an earthquake, 28.76% of survivors develop some form of anxiety.
This means about “one in every three to four people” will experience symptoms—which is quite significant.
Even after nine months, the rate only slightly decreases to 19.48% (roughly “one in five survivors”).
Without timely support, about 10% (one in ten) of survivors may continue to suffer from long-term symptoms, affecting their daily lives and potentially leading to further psychological issues.
🤯🥵 What symptoms might occur?
1️. Dizziness
One of the most common symptoms. Some people experience a sensation of dizziness or imbalance, similar to what they felt during the earthquake.
This condition, known as Post-Earthquake Dizziness Syndrome, happens because the body’s balance system was overstimulated during the quake and hasn’t yet fully recalibrated.
2️. Panic attacks 😱
Along with dizziness, the body’s autonomic nervous system may remain overly sensitive.
This can cause panic symptoms such as a racing heart, restlessness, excessive sweating, heavy breathing, or even hyperventilation leading to muscle stiffness.
These reactions can occur when approaching places associated with fear of earthquakes—or sometimes without any warning.
(However, it’s important to rule out any underlying physical illnesses as well.)
3. Heightened anxiety, stress, and irritability 😖
Many survivors may find themselves worrying excessively—about the possibility of another earthquake or about their overall safety.
Severe anxiety might also spill over into everyday life, making daily activities or work feel overwhelming. Some people may become easily startled or irritable in response to minor triggers.
4️. Insomnia 🥱
Another very common symptom. Survivors may find it hard to fall asleep due to racing thoughts, or they may wake up frequently during the night. Some might experience nightmares related to the earthquake.
5️. Avoidance behaviors 🏃♀️
Due to lingering anxiety, many survivors try to avoid situations or places that remind them of the earthquake.
For example, they might refuse to stay in high-rise buildings (some even move out of their condominiums), avoid elevators or confined spaces, or stay away from earthquake-affected areas altogether. Some have even temporarily relocated to provinces that were unaffected by the quake
👩⚕️👨⚕️How can we treat these symptoms?
Early Intervention
When survivors receive timely support or practice good self-care, many will gradually recover fully.
Key strategies include:
– Don’t bottle up your worries or avoid discussing them.
– Find a trusted person to talk to.
– Practice relaxation techniques, like deep and slow breathing exercises.
– Engage in relaxing activities and try to maintain a normal routine, which helps the brain restore its natural balance.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your symptoms are severe enough to disrupt daily life or work,
or if they persist for more than two weeks,
It’s important to consult a psychiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Dr. Orarat Choukulcharatsiri
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
Baan Sathorn Psychiatric Clinic
References:
– https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12888-016-0891-9
– https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-19736-8
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