ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses disasters issues in the Malaysian context. It focuses on natural disasters under hydrological events which are flooding. Asia Pacific countries continue to suffer disproportionately from disasters caused by natural factors. In Malaysia, flood disasters are distinguished from other types of collective stress because flood disasters are a crisis. Malaysia's approach to disaster management focuses on rescue and physical rehabilitation. The emotional pain, suffering and loss during and following flood disasters can lead to psychosocial problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder in the most severe cases. Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies primarily use a community-based approach in responding to psychosocial needs. However, services focusing on mental health and psychosocial support have the potential to cause harm because they deal with highly sensitive issues. Psychological Debriefing exits in various countries in various forms such as the psychological programme in the Philippines and multiple-stressor debriefing after a disaster in the United States.
