Why Natural Disasters Trigger PTSD — Even If You Weren’t There
Dr. Sheri Jacobson
April 29, 2025
When a natural disaster strikes, the devastation can ripple far beyond the disaster zone. Simply witnessing traumatic events unfold — through news reports, social media, or stories from loved ones — can trigger intense psychological reactions, including PTSD.
PTSD is a serious condition that can strike after any life-shattering event. While many factors influence an individual’s risk, trauma from natural disasters can impact a far wider circle of people than often assumed.
PTSD: Awareness and Impact
PTSD gained widespread recognition after the Vietnam War, when many returning soldiers struggled with disturbing symptoms and impaired functioning. Today, in the wake of disasters, immediate physical needs often take precedence, leaving the emotional toll overlooked. As a result, many are left to cope with PTSD alone, even though therapy and counselling can lead to real recovery.
Who Is Affected by PTSD?
PTSD doesn’t just affect those who were physically there. Victims can include:
- Survivors who narrowly escape death
- Individuals who are injured
- Witnesses to traumatic events
And thanks to modern media, family and friends of those impacted can also suffer PTSD symptoms from afar. Exposure to graphic images and distressing news stories can deeply affect emotional wellbeing.
Recognising PTSD Symptoms
By: Abdul Rahman
Symptoms vary widely but commonly include:
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
- Impaired daily functioning
- Memory difficulties
- Struggles in parenting or relationships
Symptoms may not emerge immediately — it could take weeks, months, or even years. With the right support, however, many people experience significant improvement.
How Disasters — and the Media — Spread PTSD Worldwide
From wildfires and earthquakes to floods and hurricanes, natural disasters seem more frequent than ever. Media coverage plays a powerful role: while it raises awareness, it can also unintentionally intensify trauma.
Research following Hurricane Katrina found that greater exposure to television footage strongly correlated with developing PTSD symptoms. The same pattern appears in more recent disasters, with loved ones abroad suffering secondary trauma from relentless news exposure.
A Global Reach
In today’s hyper-connected world, emotional aftershocks don’t respect geography. Understanding the ripple effect of trauma is crucial to recognising how deeply disasters can affect communities worldwide.
There Is Help — And Hope
PTSD is serious but treatable. With the right help, individuals can rebuild and lead fulfilling lives.
If you or someone you care about is struggling after a traumatic event — whether directly involved or emotionally impacted from afar — reaching out for support can be life-changing.
Assessment and treatment for PTSD are available through Harley Therapy. You don’t have to face it alone.
by Charlotte Bassam-Bowles
