What are common indicators of distress in disaster survivors?

The choice highlighting intrusive reactions, avoidance and withdrawal, and physical arousal captures the essence of common psychological responses seen in individuals who have experienced a disaster.

After a traumatic event, individuals may experience intrusive thoughts or memories related to the incident, which can manifest as flashbacks or anxiety when reminded of the trauma. Avoidance and withdrawal are also key responses; survivors might try to distance themselves from reminders of the disaster, both physically and emotionally, leading to social withdrawal and a reluctance to engage in everyday activities or interact with others.

Physical arousal is an important indicator as well, as survivors may show signs of heightened anxiety, such as an increased heart rate, difficulty sleeping, or being easily startled. This accumulated set of reactions reflects typical human responses to trauma and stress, which are critical for recognizing those in distress and providing them with the necessary support.

In contrast, while financial instability, isolation from community support, and incompatibility with others are important issues that can arise after a disaster, they do not specifically represent the immediate psychological distress indicators usually assessed in psychological first aid. They may contribute to a more complex picture of a survivor's situation but are not direct indicators of distress in the context of psychological responses to trauma.