Mental health and psychosocial consequences linked to radiation emergencies - Increasingly recognised concerns

A major radiological or nuclear emergency may, apart from causing a substantial loss of life and physical damage, also put a substantial strain on affected societies with social, economic and political consequences. Although such emergencies are relatively uncommon, it is now being increasingly recognised that their subsequent psychosocial impact can be widespread and long lasting. Mental health effects, such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, are highly represented in a population affected by a radiation disaster. In order to reach the majority of the people affected by radiation accidents, we need to be aware of how to distribute relevant and accurate information related to both short- and long-term medical effects. Effective risk communication is associated with improved compliance with any given recommendations. It is important to protect the public from physical radiation damage, but it is also essential to take into account the social and mental health effects that radiation disasters may induce. This article provides a brief review of recent reporting on the psychological consequences after a major radiation emergency.