Psychological Impact of Violence: Survivors of Red Fort Blast Share Experiences

The psychological impact of the Red Fort blast extends far beyond the immediate physical devastation. Survivors, families of victims, and first responders are facing profound mental health challenges, as highlighted by experts in the field.

According to the Times of India, the blast killed 13 people and injured dozens, leaving a trail of grief that is compounded by a lack of community support for those affected. Dr. Nimesh G Desai, a consultant psychiatrist, pointed out that in disasters like this, victims often come from diverse backgrounds and lack a shared community to help them cope, which can lead to isolation.

He emphasized that individuals who lost loved ones, those who were injured, and even eyewitnesses are navigating their trauma without a natural support system. Furthermore, the report notes a troubling trend of 'digital-mediated trauma cascade,' where constant exposure to graphic images from the blast online exacerbates stress responses and increases vulnerability to trauma-related disorders.

Dr. Rajiv Mehta from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital expressed concern about children, who are now exposed to violent visuals without context or adult explanation. This exposure can lead to heightened anxiety and fear among children, making them more clingy and fearful of future violence.

He advised parents to be mindful of their expressions of anger and judgment, as children absorb these sentiments, which can deepen their fears long after the visuals fade. Counseling psychologist Esha Mehta shared the intense emotional strain that such traumatic experiences impose on witnesses, drawing parallels to soldiers traumatized by war.

She explained that witnessing extreme violence can trigger classic trauma responses, including intrusive thoughts, startle reactions, and feelings of insecurity. Ordinary activities, such as shopping, can become intimidating in the aftermath of such violence.

The impact extends beyond immediate victims to frontline workers, ambulance staff, and police personnel, who are also vulnerable to trauma from repeated exposure to violence. Families who lose primary earners face profound purposelessness, and survivor's guilt can be overwhelming.

The experts call for sensitivity and the need for psychological first-aid camps and long-term mental health support for those affected by incidents like the Red Fort blast, emphasizing the critical importance of addressing the mental health needs of the community in the aftermath of such tragedies.