By Hala Kerbage, MD, psychiatrist and researcher, 
Hôtel-Dieu de France – Université Saint-Joseph

Following the terrible tragedy that has occurred in Beirut on August 4, 2020, causing at least 220 deaths and more than 7000 injuries, leaving an estimated 300,000 people homeless, and destroying core neighborhoods of the city, it is normal to be in a state of anger, sadness, fear, and shock. The contrary would be surprising. We are grieving our loved ones, our city, our neighborhoods, and going through this phase of grief is expected and essential for our healing as individuals and communities. 

In the first days, weeks, or even months, after a traumatic event of that magnitude, it is therefore normal to experience some of the following manifestations:

  • Sleep disturbances and nightmares.
  • Feeling tense, irritable and angry.
  • Heightened sensitivity to loud voices.
  • Flashbacks of the traumatic events.
  • A need to repeat over and over again what happened by narrating it, watching videos of the explosion etc…or on the contrary avoiding talking about it or mentioning it.
  • Physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, diffuse pain.
  • Struggling with feeling of guilt because we survived or because we were away or because we couldn’t save others.
  • Panic attacks (sudden bouts of anxiety with physical symptoms like palpitations and chest pain).
  • Sometimes, feelings that everything surrounding us is not real or blurry for a few seconds or minutes (derealization). 
  • Trouble concentrating and memory problems.

These symptoms allow our body and mind to spontaneously process the traumatic event, and will wear off in most cases within weeks.

Meanwhile, here are some things you can remind yourself of:

  • Accept that this is a time of grief and that what you are experiencing is normal and expected. 
  • You are processing the traumatic event; it is healthier than denying it or completely suppressing it.
  • Since this is a collective disaster, strengthening community support, social connection, solidarity, and engaging in relief efforts (only if you feel capable of it) can help ease the pain and help you regain a sense of meaning and purpose.
  • Do not try to suppress your feelings, but instead, if you feel comfortable about it, share with your loved ones and cry it out.
  • Accept that you will not be in your usual functioning for several weeks and do not submit to the societal pressure of regaining productivity as soon as possible if you don’t feel ready.
  • Take the time you need to heal and accept the change in your routine.
  • Avoid abusing alcohol and drugs as it can worsen some manifestations.
  • What happened is tragic and abnormal while your reactions are only legitimate and normal.

When should you seek professional help?

Dr.Hala Kerbage
  • If you feel very isolated and you need to talk to someone at any time
  • If you have suicidal ideas and self-harm impulsions.
  • If you have constant and overwhelming panic attacks.
  • If you have severe insomnia.
  • If you feel unable to communicate and be receptive to your loved ones.
  • If you have a pre-existing mental health condition and feel you might be having symptoms of relapse.
  • If you simply subjectively feel the need to. 

Call Embrace lifeline for emotional support 1564, they can provide emotional support and refer you if needed to appropriate and free mental health services. You can also check the facebook page of the National Mental Health Program (https://www.facebook.com/nmhplebanon/) for information and awareness on mental health.

The importance of social justice in community healing

  • Even though addressing individual symptoms can be necessary for some individuals, the definition of mental health is not merely the absence of symptoms but also the capacity to lead a fulfilling life within a safe environment that provides adequate opportunities for individual and communities. 
  • The collective healing on the long term is linked with advocating for political justice, holding the political ruling class accountable and ensuring financial and moral compensation for the victims. 
  • Clinical mental health interventions will help alleviate your symptoms if needed and regain some functionality but collective action is also needed on the long term to provide dignity, justice and restoration of basic rights.