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Beyond the Water: How Floods Steal Peace of Mind
29 Apr
Summary
- Flooding trauma can force lifelong residents to abandon their homes.
- Mental health suffers significantly due to fear of future floods.
- Research aims to improve support for flood-affected communities.
The psychological toll of severe flooding extends far beyond damaged properties, leaving many residents in a state of ongoing anxiety and trauma. Stephen Cook, who had lived in Fishlake his entire life, and his wife were so profoundly affected by the 2019 River Don floods that they sold their home and moved three miles away, despite the village's flood defenses being upgraded.
Similar stories emerge from other flood-affected areas. Christopher Lloyd in Rotherham, who returned to his home after a year, described the lingering fear, comparing the triggers to those experienced by soldiers. In Hebden Bridge, which suffered major flooding in 2015, a "cloud of anxiety" descends whenever it rains, affecting livelihoods and homes. Even York's Citizens' Advice sees a spike in people seeking help during heavy rainfall, noting physical health impacts from damp properties.
Lorna Squires, a Chesterfield resident living near where Maureen Gilbert tragically drowned during Storm Babet in October 2023, expresses a pervasive fear, feeling like she is drowning even when dry. Researchers at the University of Huddersfield are investigating these widespread mental health impacts, with study results expected in the summer. Their work aims to inform authorities on enhancing mental health support for flood victims.
