PSYCHOSOCIAL EFFECTS OF THE SOIL SUBSIDENCE DISASTER (ONGOING), CAUSED BY SALGEMA EXTRACTION, IN THE CITY OF MACEIÓ/AL

Abstract

The present study addresses mental health and psychosocial care in disaster contexts, focusing on the case of soil subsidence in Maceió, Alagoas. Initially, the gap in knowledge and intervention in this field in Brazilian public policies stands out. Disasters are defined as adverse events, natural or human, that affect vulnerable ecosystems, causing human, material and environmental damage. The disaster in Maceió began in 2018, caused by the disorderly extraction of salgema, leading to soil instability and affecting several neighborhoods. The response involved Civil Defense actions, compensation from the responsible company (BRASKEN) and relocation of the affected population. In addition to material damage, there were emotional and social losses, and it is essential to consider the psychosocial effects. Forced relocation, in particular, can cause social disconnection and increase stress, anxiety and depression. Psychosocial care requires a holistic approach, integrating specialized services with the health network and promoting emotional support and adaptation to changes. The psychosocial care network in Maceió has proven insufficient to meet the demand presented, therefore requiring the expansion of services. It is essential, therefore, to face the challenges of mental health requires public policies aligned with the principles of the SUS and Psychiatric Reform, in addition to a sensitive approach to the needs of affected communities.