This blog has been written by The Flood Hub People.
Flooding causes visible damage to buildings and infrastructure, but its long-term effects on mental health are often less obvious.
The Hidden Toll of Flood Events
When it comes to stress and trauma, emotional resilience varies from person to person. After a flood, the mental health and wellbeing of affected individuals can suffer for months or even years. Many people who experience a flood for the first time report that it is not the event itself, but the prolonged recovery process that takes the greatest toll physically, emotionally and mentally.
Image: Wokandapix from Pixabay
Research into Flooding and Psychological Impacts
Following the 2007 floods, the Health Protection Agency, King’s College London and Lancaster University conducted studies into the psychosocial and mental health impacts of flooding. While factors like pre-existing social deprivation contributed to stress, the direct impacts of flooding were profound and complex.
Flood events can displace families, disrupt employment and income and create prolonged stress while dealing with insurance claims and property repairs. Traditionally, there has been limited evidence on the long-term effects of flooding beyond the first few months post-event.
Long-Term Studies: 2013/14 Winter Floods
In 2015, Public Health England began a long-term study examining the health and wellbeing of people affected by the winter floods of 2013/14. Participants included those directly flooded, those indirectly disrupted, and those unaffected. The study monitored individuals annually over several years, providing insights to guide future policy and practice.
Coping mechanisms vary, and while many are positive, traumatic events can lead to increased reliance on prescription medications like antidepressants or recreational substances including alcohol and tobacco. Public Health England found that people whose liveable areas were flooded were 6–7 times more likely to develop depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 12 months later than those unaffected. Flood depth also played a role: water over one metre increased the likelihood of depression, anxiety, and PTSD by 15x, 11x, and 18x respectively.
The Challenges of Recovery
Even after returning to a repaired home, some residents struggle with post-traumatic stress. Changes to furniture, fixtures, and possessions can make the home feel unfamiliar, creating anxiety and sleepless nights, particularly during storms or heavy rainfall.
Flooding and Children
Flooding also significantly impacts children, for whom home and family represent safety and stability. Losing familiar toys or possessions can be distressing, and understanding why contaminated items must be discarded is challenging.
Lancaster University and Save the Children conducted a project called Children, Young People and Flooding: Recovery and Resilience. This research explored children’s experiences, the effects on their lives, and strategies for providing constructive support. School education programs in flood-affected areas are helping children process these events positively and build resilience.
Getting Support
If you have been affected by flooding, it’s important to seek help early. Start by contacting your GP or NHS 111 if you are experiencing emotional or physical health issues. Organisations such as MIND offer advice, guidance and access to mental health services:
Support can also come from informal networks. Family, friends and neighbours often play a crucial role in helping people cope with the stress of flooding. Community groups, local charities, and flood support networks can provide practical help, emotional support and social connections during recovery.
Local councils and community organisations may run peer-support groups, resilience programmes, or events specifically for people affected by flooding. Participating in these can reduce feelings of isolation and provide opportunities to share experiences, tips and resources with others who understand what you are going through.
If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this blog, please reach out to MIND for support and guidance.
Sources: Public Health England, Lancaster University, National Archives, plos.org
