A residential fire in Tai Po last week has highlighted critical mental health challenges for affected residents in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Senior clinical psychologist Lam Ho-ming from the Social Welfare Department explains how survivors can navigate post-disaster trauma as recovery efforts continue.
Understanding Trauma Responses
Many residents have reported symptoms including flashbacks, anxiety, and physical reactions like vomiting since the incident. Lam emphasizes these are normal responses to abnormal events, advising grounding techniques such as controlled breathing and maintaining physical contact with stable surfaces to regain emotional balance.
Community Support in Action
Lam stresses the importance of companionship from family, friends, and volunteers to help survivors process emotions. Over 1,000 volunteers and hundreds of organizations are providing material aid, temporary housing, and psychological counseling. "Simple acts of listening or offering reassurance can rebuild shattered安全感," Lam noted.
Pathways to Healing
Charitable groups have established structured support systems combining financial assistance with professional counseling. Authorities urge affected residents to seek help promptly, with Lam concluding: "Acknowledging pain is the first step toward reclaiming control over one's life."
