The Ministry of Health reminds parents, guardians, and teachers to continue to support children’s mental well-being, especially those who experienced the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Port Vila on 17 December 2024. While physical recovery is important, it is equally essential to help children restore feelings of safety, reduce stress and regulate their emotions.
Advice for Parents and Guardians
Children may experience fear, anxiety, or confusion following a disaster, which may lead to behavior changes. As caregivers, your understanding and quality support are vital. Here is how you can help:
• Talk and Listen: Encourage children to express their feelings. Use simple language and techniques to validate their feeling of safety. In addition, encourage positive self-talk.
• Maintain Routines: Structure and normalcy help children feel secure. Stick to regular mealtimes, bedtime, and school schedules.
• Provide Comfort and Security: Offer physical comfort, such as hugs, and allow them to stay close to family members.
• Limit Exposure to Distressing News: Reduce their exposure to media coverage of the disaster to prevent unnecessary anxiety. Also help them to validate their source of information; this will help reduce stress in their life. Answer questions honestly, whilst reassuring them.
• Encourage Expression: Drawing, storytelling, or playing can help children express their emotions in a healthy way without criticism of judgement.
Guidance for Teachers and Schools
Schools play a crucial role in helping children recover from trauma. Educators are encouraged to:
• Create a Safe Space: Allow students to talk about their experiences and feelings in a supportive environment where feelings are validated.
• Promote Positive Activities: Encourage class discussions, creative arts, and physical activities to help students cope and build strong relationships with one another.
• Recognise Signs of Distress: Some children may show withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, or changes in behaviour. Provide additional support and refer them to health professionals if needed.
• Teach Emergency Preparedness: Conduct earthquake drills and provide clear guidance on safety measures to empower students and reduce panic.
What to Do During Future Earthquakes
To minimize panic and ensure safety in the event of another earthquake, follow these steps:
• Stay Calm and Reassure Children: Keep your voice steady and calm to help prevent panic.
• Follow Safety Protocols: Drop, Cover, and Hold under sturdy furniture until the shaking stops.
• Avoid Running: Teach children to stay where they are unless in immediate danger.
• Check for Injuries and Hazards: Once safe, assess surroundings and follow emergency instructions from authorities.
Healthy Coping Tips
A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Help children build resilience with these habits:
• Engage in Physical Activities: Encourage participation in sports, outdoor play, and regular exercise.
• Promote a Nutritious Diet: Provide balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water.
• Ensure Sufficient Rest: Quality sleep is essential for mental and physical recovery.
• Encourage Social Interaction: Community activities and peer support help children regain a sense of normalcy.
Encouraging Community Activities
Children benefit greatly from engaging in their communities. Parents, teachers, and community leaders are encouraged to:
• Organise storytelling sessions, music, and group activities to promote social bonding.
• Encourage participation in traditional and modern sports to build teamwork and resilience.
• Facilitate open conversations between children and trusted adults about their fears and hopes. And ensure the child leaves feeling reassured and thinking positively about themselves.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and training, is committed to supporting families and schools in ensuring the emotional well-being of children. If any child experiences prolonged distress or trauma, we urge parents and teachers to seek professional help from health services.
For more information, please contact the Ministry of Health or visit your nearest health facility.
For more information, please contact:
Marama Jacob Naus
Communications Officer
Health Promotion Unit
Department of Public Health
Email:
Mob.: 7556084
Tel.: 22512