An earthquake is a movement of the earth's plates, which results in a sudden mild-to-strong shaking of the ground. The shaking may be horizontal, vertical, or fluctuating (wave-like), and can occur over very large regions. Earthquakes may last from a few seconds to several minutes and usually start with a rumbling noise that can be low in volume or as loud as the sound of a moving truck or bus. Earthquakes occur suddenly and unpredictably.
The earthquake that recently occurred in Nepal with its epicenter in Barpark, Gorkha was of 7.8 Richter scale, according to USGS. This earthquake proved very destructive as its hypocenter was at the depth of approximately 15 km, causing unexpected damages.
The mega earthquake and its continuous aftershocks have wreaked havoc, resulting in many casualties, injuries, destructions and terrors. More than eight thousand people were killed while over 25 thousands have been injured, with its number ever increasing. More significantly, the children have been hit hardest both physically and psychologically by this sudden disaster. The impacts of earthquake on children and adolescents will have many adverse effects on the country's economy in future, too.
The sights, sounds, smells, sensations, and inner feelings the children encounter might remind them of the devastating earthquake even in the next several years. These traumatic reminders can bring on distressing mental images, thoughts, and emotional/physical reactions. Common reminders include aftershocks, cracks in the wall, rumbling noises, destroyed buildings, smells of fire and smoke, the place where they experienced the earthquake, seeing people with disabilities, funerals, anniversaries of the date, and television or radio news about earthquakes.
An earthquake may serve as a reminder of prior trauma and loss, making the current reactions even worse. Post-earthquake problems with living conditions, food, water, electricity, transportation, school, work, and daily routines might make daily life very difficult for weeks or even months. Efforts to tackle with these adversities may significantly reduce a person's coping and emotional resources, and in turn interfere with their ability to recover.
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