Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Floods are among the most frequent and destructive natural disasters, causing extensive physical, social, economic, and psychological consequences for affected communities. While considerable attention is often directed toward infrastructural damage and immediate humanitarian relief, the long-term impact of floods on survivors' mental well-being remains insufficiently explored, particularly in the Indian context. The present exploratory study aimed to understand the impact of the 2025 Punjab floods on the well-being of survivors by examining their lived experiences, psychological challenges, coping strategies, and recovery processes. A descriptive exploratory qualitative research design was adopted. Data were collected through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with three flood survivors aged 15–60 years selected through convenience sampling. Ethical principles, including informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary participation, were maintained throughout the study. The interview data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis with the support of NVivo software. Five major themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Sudden Onslaught and Immediate Disruption, highlighting unexpected destruction, displacement, and disruption of essential services; (2) Lingering Psychological Aftershocks, reflecting persistent fear, anxiety, traumatic memories, and emotional distress; (3) The Power of Community and Mutual Aid, emphasizing the protective role of family, neighbours, NGOs, and community support in facilitating recovery; (4) Acknowledged Government and Systemic Shortfalls, identifying both effective relief measures and infrastructural limitations that intensified the crisis; and (5) Personal Coping and Post-Traumatic Growth, illustrating survivors' resilience through adaptive coping strategies, spirituality, preparedness, and hope. The findings demonstrate that flood-related distress extends far beyond immediate material losses and significantly influences survivors' psychological well-being. At the same time, strong social cohesion and individual resilience serve as critical protective factors promoting recovery. The study underscores the importance of integrating psychosocial support, community-based interventions, and mental health services into disaster preparedness and response policies. Although limited by a small sample size, the research provides valuable insights into the psychosocial experiences of Punjab flood survivors and offers practical implications for future disaster management and mental health interventions.
Authors: Shagun Dutta, Shrity Sharan, Manpreet Ola
Institution: GD Goenka University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204992020