Primary mental health care in disasters: Armero, Colombia - the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among victims in tent camps Article

Lima, BR, Pai, S, Santacruz, H et al. (1987). Primary mental health care in disasters: Armero, Colombia - the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among victims in tent camps . 62

cited authors

  • Lima, BR; Pai, S; Santacruz, H; Lozano, J; Luna, J

authors

abstract

  • The eruption of Nevado del Ruiz on November 13, 1985, produced a mudslide that completely destroyed the town of Armero and left in its wake over 24 000 dead, 5000 injured, and scores of homeless survivors in dire economic straits. The Armero disaster provided an excellent opportunity for exploring the special role of the primary care worker (PCW) in delivering mental health care to disaster victims. Specifically, seven months after the event, a very high prevalence of emotional distress was found among adult victims who where living in temporary shelters. -Authors

publication date

  • January 1, 1987

volume

  • 62