China deploys psychological aid to rescuers in flood disaster

As rain continued to fall in Gyirong county on Sept. 5, psychological counsellor He Lei began another day supporting search and rescue personnel working at the mudslide-hit Gyirong Port in Shigatse, Xizang autonomous region.

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Through our work these days, we have found that our soldiers are quite resilient. They are focused on fulfilling their missions here and are fully aware of the significance of helping every family affected by the disaster.

He said counsellors had found the soldiers resilient and focused on their missions. She described a technique called "look, listen, smell and move" for personnel experiencing panic or physical stiffness. Counsellors guide them to identify objects around them, listen for distinct sounds, notice different smells and perform a simple movement, such as stamping their feet.

"This rapid redirection of attention helps alleviate immediate physiological stress responses," He said. She also visits the core disaster area when needed, saying she wanted to see whether soldiers required support and teach them methods they could use independently.

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We have a method called ‘look, listen, smell and move’.

As of Sept. 3, the PLA and the People’s Armed Police Force had deployed 726 personnel for rescue and relief operations. The medical and disease prevention team provides medical and psychological services to rescuers and affected villagers, disinfects key sites and monitors health risks.

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This rapid redirection of attention helps alleviate immediate physiological stress responses.

Tan Xiangdong of the Xizang autonomous regional health commission said authorities had organised three groups of psychological health experts, totaling more than 210 people. Front-line workers can access psychological risk assessments, group and individual counselling, and pocket guides explaining stress reactions and coping methods.

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As members of the military, we cannot shy away from difficult conditions.