Three days after the devastating earthquake on Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, the situation remains highly tense as thousands of residents have yet to return home. The powerful quake has claimed at least 70 lives, injured nearly 1,200 people, and destroyed thousands of houses, leaving deep scars in the local community, especially among children.
Many children in the affected areas are facing severe psychological shock. The violent shaking, screams, and scenes of collapsing homes have been etched into their minds, leading to fear, panic, and difficulty sleeping. Experts worry that without timely support, these mental wounds could have a long-term impact on children's development.
Local authorities and relief organizations are urgently setting up temporary shelters and providing food, clean water, and medical aid to those who have lost their homes. However, the need for mental health care services, particularly for children, is becoming more urgent than ever, especially in areas still inaccessible due to badly damaged infrastructure.
Search and rescue operations continue, while local residents are living in makeshift tents outdoors for fear of aftershocks. Authorities are advising people to be extremely cautious when returning home and are calling on the international community to join hands in helping the region recover from the disaster and address long-term consequences, particularly the emotional toll on the younger generation.
