title: Inauguration of the first Psychological Support Center for disaster victims in Korea.
abstract: Disasters can strike uncontrollably whenever or wherever, leaving horrendous marks of physical and psychological damage on people upon their passing. Asia remains the most widely affected area of the world, with high death tolls, casualties, and economic losses recorded in past years. In fact, a developed country like South Korea incurs huge deficits from disaster-related adversities. Restoration efforts and assistance for disaster survivors are generously provided by the Korean government. However, it is only recently that cases of postdisaster mental problems have been given attention. This article argues that, although material relief helps disaster victims to regain their physical losses, it is equally important to aid their psychological needs to prevent long-term mental health problems. This article highlights Korea's first regional Psychological Support Center for disaster victims, which can be accessed online. With this Center, the country continues to strive in providing her people with holistic approaches to further enhance each citizen's quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nursing, Inje University, Busan, South Korea. jibai@inje.ac.kr
authors.forename: Jeongyee
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bae
authors.forename: Key-Yong
authors.initials: KY
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Rosel L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Panuncio
authors.forename: Namhee
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Choi
authors.forename: Sook-Bin
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Im
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D004189:Disaster Planning; D004190:Disasters; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007723:Korea; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008960:Models, Psychological; D020380:Needs Assessment; D012308:Risk Management; D012944:Social Support