PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACT OF FLOODING ON MENTAL HEALTH: (BASED ON FLOODING IN NIGERIA IN 2024)

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Floods are the predominant form of worldwide natural calamity and an inherent occurrence that adversely affects mental well-being. Flooding refers to the overflow of water bodies onto previously dry land and residential areas, resulting in significant harm and loss to both human life and property (Turner et al., 2017). Flooding can happen when bodies of water exceed their usual levels and encroach into higher locations. A flood is the inundation of terrain that is typically arid due to an excess of water. A flood can be defined as the excessive buildup of water along the natural or man-made boundaries of a body of water, resulting in the devastation of lives and properties in the affected regions (Lagun, 2017). Flooding has emerged as a significant global environmental problem, causing widespread concern in various sectors such as agriculture, civil engineering, economy, and public health. Researchers are also investigating the impact of flooding on mental health, recognising it as a serious concern (Tempest, 2023). 

Currently, flooding has become the most common form of significant catastrophe. across the past decade, floods across Europe have resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 individuals and impacted more than 3.4 million others (Martin, 2021). Similar to other types of significant tragedies or catastrophes, the impact on individuals' well-being, interpersonal connections, and overall wellbeing can be far-reaching. However, flooding distinguishes itself from other types of disasters due to its potential for prevention through flood-prevention measures. Additionally, the prolonged recovery period following a flood increases the likelihood of secondary stressors emerging and intensifies the concerns about future occurrences among those affected by floods (Williams, 2021). Moreover, the effects of climate change are expected to amplify the frequency of flooding. Anticipated climate-induced rises in precipitation are expected to heighten the frequency and intensity of floods. According to Akin et al. (2021), the European Union should expect an annual increase in the number of persons at risk from coastal flooding, potentially affecting up to 1.6 million individuals.

Flooding can be caused by various factors, including heavy rainfall due to climate change and global warming. Human activities, such as deforestation and the removal of wetlands, can also contribute to the intensity and frequency of flooding. Additionally, changes in waterway course and flood control measures, such as levees, can play a role. Larger environmental issues like climate change and rising sea levels further exacerbate the risk of flooding (Atkins, 2018). Specifically, the heightened precipitation and extreme weather events caused by climate change amplify the impact of other factors contributing to flooding, leading to more severe floods and an elevated risk of flooding. Additional factors that can contribute to floods include: infiltration capacity, high discharge volumes, urbanisation growth, and the form of the basin. While the causes of floods can vary throughout different locations of the world, the impact of global warming may differ as well, as observed by Joseph (2022).

Reports on the psychosocial consequences of flood disasters indicate that they can have substantial influence on individuals' overall welfare, interpersonal connections, and psychological well-being (Makwana, 2020). Flooding can result in significant social and welfare challenges that can persist for long durations. These challenges are not only caused by the direct impact of being flooded, but also by secondary stressors that arise as individuals attempt to restore their lives, property, and relationships. These secondary stressors, such as the economic strain associated with rebuilding, can further exacerbate the difficulties faced by affected individuals (Otto et al., 2019). Flooding can provide a significant challenge to the psychological and social resilience of even the most resilient individuals who are impacted (Philip, 2022).

Makwana (2020) contends that Flooding has the potential to exacerbate or initiate psychosocial distress as a result of the socioeconomic losses endured by those impacted.  Flooding can present a substantial psychological hurdle for some demographics such as children, older individuals, individuals with impairments, and individuals with mental health disorders. Research indicates that individuals are susceptible to mental health illnesses after experiencing stressful occurrences such as flooding (Gerrard et al., 2022). Individuals who have been affected have exhibited various mental problems, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and in severe instances, have succumbed to suicide (Philip, 2022).  The personal reaction to floods is linked to emotions of sorrow and deprivation, which can be overpowering and result in many outcomes. There has been a reported rise in substance addiction and the usage of psychiatric medications following flooding occurrences.  A study conducted by Yekini et al. (2021) discovered a rise in the consumption of alcohol and tobacco subsequent to the 2011 Queensland flood in Australia.  Given the widespread occurrence of mental health issues, individuals who have been affected by floods may continue to experience these symptoms for many years. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritise the timely identification and response to the emotional challenges caused by flooding on these individuals.

Humanitarian response to floods often involves the collaboration of national and multinational teams to address the diverse health needs of affected individuals.  Nevertheless, research suggests that mental health and psychosocial assistance are frequently not given priority, and this situation may be exacerbated in countries such as Nigeria where there is a significant demand for mental health services that remains unmet (Shedrack et al., 2023).  The September 2019 flooding in Nigeria was investigated by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Their final report revealed that the main priority was providing financial aid and relief supplies to the affected individuals and communities. However, no specific mental health services were offered during this process (Shedrack et al., 2023). Although there exists a national disaster response plan that assigns the responsibility of providing mental health services during emergencies to the Ministry of Health and NEMA, there is a lack of evidence indicating the presence of a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) implementation plan or framework in the national policy (Olumide, 2023). This suggests that there could be instances where MHPSS (Mental Health and Psychosocial Support) is not provided or is delivered in a disorganised manner during humanitarian crises in the country (Olumide, 2023).

Flooding is not solely a physical catastrophe, but it also has severe psychosocial ramifications on impacted people, including substantial repercussions on mental well-being. In 2024, Nigeria encountered extensive flooding incidents that impacted a large number of individuals, resulting in their displacement, loss of means of subsistence, and disturbance of communities (Agbaje, 2024). Gaining insight into the psychosocial consequences of floods on mental well-being is essential for formulating comprehensive disaster response strategies and delivering efficient assistance to impacted individuals and communities. This study examines the psychological and social effects of the 2024 floods on mental well-being in Nigeria. The objective is to investigate the experiences of individuals and communities impacted by flooding, evaluate the frequency of mental health issues, and analyse the strategies for managing and the systems of assistance available. Therefore, the investigation is necessary.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Flooding is a recurrent natural calamity in Nigeria, impacting a large number of individuals and resulting in substantial physical destruction. In addition to the direct physical consequences, flooding has significant psychological ramifications on the emotional well-being of the afflicted populace. The floods that occurred in Nigeria in 2024 were exceptionally severe, resulting in extensive displacement, loss of livelihoods, and disruption of communities. These occurrences have emphasised the necessity of addressing the overall psychological impact of flooding on mental health.

Research has demonstrated that flooding incidents are distressing, resulting in heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and terror among impacted persons (Brad, 2018). The emotional responses are intensified by the experience of losing homes, assets, and loved ones. Forced eviction and the consequent deprivation of homes, property, and means of livelihood can lead to emotions of sorrow, despondency, and despair (Bala, 2022). Displacement has the effect of disturbing social networks, leading to heightened feelings of isolation and loneliness. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2022, flood-prone areas in Nigeria, such as Kogi, Benue, Adamawa, Jigawa, as well as certain communities in Anambra and Delta states, are at a higher risk of suffering substantial damages. The emotional responses following flooding in these areas are expected to be predominantly grief. Grief may arise due to the loss of loved ones, house, cherished belongings, or the community's means of subsistence. The individual's susceptibility to disease is heightened when they experience the emotional tragedy of losing a beloved family member, resulting in a more severe state of unhealthiness. Grief elicits a range of emotional responses, such as sadness, anguish, anger, and a strong desire and longing for what has been lost (Okonkwo, 2022).

Following a flood, there is often widespread devastation and severe losses, including the destruction of valuable possessions, the displacement of individuals, the disruption of livelihoods, and the potential destruction of cultural property. Certain individuals have a tendency to turn to drug usage and the misuse of other prohibited substances as a means of coping with their losses (Rio et al., 2018). Following a flood disaster, there has been an observed rise in alcohol and drug use. Additionally, social disengagement, particularly when accompanied by numbing, is a common and unhealthy behaviour in interpersonal relationships (Carvajal et al., 2022). Family issues can arise when the main earner in a family loses their source of income due to flooding and is unable to support the family. Substance abuse, combined with family problems, can lead individuals to experience depression, psychosis, insomnia, and other symptoms, ultimately resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Shoemaker et al., 2022). The stress experienced following a traumatic event, the intense focus on distressing memories or losses, and the disturbance of one's personal life, family, community, and career can all have a negative impact on one's ability to adapt and cope. Family issues and disputes may arise, leading to excessive protection of children and occasionally resulting in domestic violence. (World Health Organisation, 2022). 

Furthermore, Nigeria suffers from an insufficiency of sufficient mental health services and resources to effectively cater to the requirements of individuals affected by floods. Current healthcare systems frequently face excessive demands and lack the essential resources to adequately deliver the required assistance (Bakare, 2024). The emotional impact of floods is worsened by socioeconomic issues, such as poverty and limited access to resources (Akpan, 2024). Disadvantaged communities have a diminished capacity to manage and recuperate from the psychological consequences of disasters. According to Arinze (2024), mental health problems in Nigerian society are frequently stigmatised, resulting in a lack of reporting and hesitancy to seek assistance. Arinze (2024) asserts that there is insufficient knowledge regarding the psychological consequences of flooding and the resources for assistance. This study aims to assess the psychological and social effects of flooding on mental health, specifically focusing on the flooding incident that occurred in Nigeria in 2024.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically assess the psychosocial impacts of flooding on mental health, based on the flooding incident in Nigeria in 2024. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To evaluate the prevalence of mental health disorders among flood-affected populations in Nigeria in 2024.

To identify the risk factors associated with poor mental health outcomes following flooding in Nigeria in 2024

To investigate the coping mechanisms and resilience factors that contribute to positive mental health outcomes in the aftermath of flooding.

To offer suggestions for psychosocial support interventions and mental health services to address the needs of flood-affected populations.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions will be answered in this study:

What is the prevalence of mental health disorders among flood-affected populations in Nigeria in 2024?

What are the risk factors associated with poor mental health outcomes following flooding in Nigeria in 2024?

What are the coping mechanisms and resilience factors that contribute to positive mental health outcomes in the aftermath of flooding?

What are the suggestions for psychosocial support interventions and mental health services to address the needs of flood-affected populations?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following research hypotheses will validate this study;

Ho: The level of prevalence of mental health disorders among flood-affected populations in Nigeria in 2024 is low.

Ha: level of prevalence of mental health disorders among flood-affected populations in Nigeria in 2024 is high.

1.6 Significance of the study

Comprehending the psychosocial consequences of flooding on mental well-being is crucial for formulating comprehensive methods for responding to disasters. The objective of this study is to offer useful insights into the mental health difficulties experienced by individuals and communities in Nigeria who have been affected by floods. The study aims to provide policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and disaster response teams with valuable insights on how to improve their approach to addressing the mental health needs of affected people by identifying effective coping mechanisms and support structures. 

The study's findings can provide valuable insights for developing policies and actions to reduce the psychological and social effects of floods.

Furthermore, the mental health repercussions of natural catastrophes such as flooding can endure for an extended period of time and affect a large number of individuals. This study can provide useful information regarding the frequency of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and social isolation, among populations in Nigeria affected by floods. These insights are essential for public health actions and support services.

Furthermore, future academics will employ it as a comprehensive analysis of the existing academic literature. Therefore, those who have a personal stake in this area of research can rely on our work as a trustworthy and rigorously assessed source of knowledge.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically assess the psychosocial impacts of flooding on mental health, based on the flooding incident in Nigeria in 2024. Specifically, this study seeks to evaluate the prevalence of mental health disorders among flood-affected populations in Nigeria in 2024 identify the risk factors associated with poor mental health outcomes following flooding in Nigeria in 2024, the coping mechanisms and resilience factors that contribute to positive mental health outcomes in the aftermath of flooding and it also seeks to offer suggestions for psychosocial support interventions and mental health services to address the needs of flood-affected populations.

1.8 Limitations of the study

Like in any human attempt, the researchers encountered several small limits during the investigation. The primary constraint was the dearth of comprehensive literature on the topic, given the scarcity of data pertaining to psychosocial impacts of flooding on mental health, based on the flooding incident in Nigeria in 2024. Therefore, a substantial investment of time and effort was required to identify the suitable materials, books, or information and to collect data. 

Moreover, this study is limited by its diminutive sample size and restricted geographical range, concentrating just on Lagos. Hence, the findings of this study cannot be extrapolated, thereby necessitating additional research. 

Furthermore, the researcher's restraints were predominantly attributable to financial limitations, as they are a student without a means of revenue to support themselves. The research location's high transportation costs, impacted by current inflation in Nigeria, made it difficult to afford transportation fees.

In addition, the researcher encountered a time limitation as a result of the necessity to do this research while simultaneously meeting the responsibilities of attending lectures and engaging in other educational pursuits.

1.9 Definition of terms

Flood: Flood is an overflow of water onto normally dry land. The inundation of a normally dry area caused by rising water in an existing waterway, such as a river, stream, or drainage ditch. Ponding of water at or near the point where the rain fell. Flooding is a longer term event than flash flooding: it may last days or weeks.

Psychosocial: Psychosocial” means “pertaining to the influence of social factors on an individual's mind or behavior, and to the interrelation of behavioral and social factors.

Post-traumatic stress disorder: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear is a part of the body's “fight-or-flight” response, which helps us avoid or respond to potential danger.

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