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Tremor news generates trauma

The Media is responsible for bringing events and developments to people around the world but graphic description of disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and tornadoes could cause psychic trauma among readers and watchers, an expert has said.

He said the visual medium has become a powerful disseminator of news through television, internet, films and other optical means, which is an excellent development but could otherwise cause harm.

Ian de Terte, Clinical Psychologist at Massey University School of Psychology said that wall-to-wall media coverage of the Christchurch and Japan earthquake disasters could put people at greater risk of developing traumatic reactions.

He specialises in vicarious trauma, in which people are exposed to traumatic incidents through secondary means, such as involvement with victims or following media reports.

“This applies to emergency workers, health practitioners and others dealing with the dead, injured, bereaved and other victims. But even those watching, reading and listening to such news can be as much at risk,” Mr de Terte said.

According to him, ‘Compassion Fatigue’ is another phenomenon associated with natural and manmade disasters, which exhibits symptoms that are akin to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

“People watching and listening to disaster coverage constantly are at a greater risk of developing symptoms similar to PTSD. They could have nightmares, become anxious and fearful,” he said.

Mr de Terte said such disorders could have higher incidence not only in people who are directly exposed to events but also those following media reports.

“Scientific research has established that about 5% of people may have psychological difficulties. Those suffering from PTSD and other problems should limit reading and watching such tragic news,” he said.

His doctorate thesis examines how some Police officials develop symptoms of such trauma after dealing with harrowing incidents and why some officials do not develop trauma.

He said there were several key indicators, which officials, families and friends should keep in perspective.

Mr de Terte agreed that on the positive side, heighted awareness of disasters could help people to be better prepared mentally and practically to face difficult situations in life.

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