Tornado 2021 in Czech Republic – psychosocial assistance by the Integrated Rescue System in the affected area

Simona Hoskovcová
Martina Wolf Čapková
Štěpán Vymětal

Abstract

The tornado hit the territory of several municipalities in South Moravia in the evening on Thursday, June 24, 2021. Although it was a relatively small area, the extent of the damage was extraordinary and of unprecedented proportions. Many people found themselves in direct danger of themselves and their loved ones. In psychology, we call such an event potentially traumatic, and we know from experience that it can have serious effects on the human psyche. The article aims to present how the system of psychosocial crisis intervention and psychological first aid provided by the Integrated Rescue System of the Czech Republic worked. This psychosocial assistance in the acute phase of a disaster builds the core of psychosocial help. There is a link to other organizations, which have their function mainly in the stabilization phase, in the medium and long-term care of the affected persons. We also consider it necessary to repeat the principles of psychosocial assistance in emergencies.

https://doi.org/10.29364/epsy.421

(Fulltext in Czech)

Keywords

psychosocial support, crisis and disaster psychology, psychological first aid, crisis intervention, integrated rescue system

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