In a stunning turn of events, Viswashkumar Ramesh, a British national, emerged as the lone survivor of the recent Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad, India, that claimed the lives of 241 others. The tragedy raises critical questions about the psychological impact on those who survive mass disasters, particularly the complex phenomenon known as “survivor’s guilt.”

The Air India Tragedy: A Sole Survivor

On Thursday, the Boeing 787-7 Dreamliner, operating as an Air India flight, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, impacting a medical college and resulting in multiple fatalities on the ground according to reports. Viswashkumar Ramesh, returning from a trip to India, was the only passenger to survive the crash. His brother, Ajay, was also on the plane but did not survive according to reports.

Ramesh,in a video call with family,expressed disbelief at his survival,stating,”I don’t know how I am alive.” The crash is under examination, and families of the victims are seeking data and support.

Understanding the Psychological Impact of Disaster Survival

Surviving a mass disaster can trigger a wide array of intense emotions. Grief, anxiety, loss, and uncertainty are common reactions to such extraordinary events according to the American Psychological Association. While most individuals recover by leveraging their personal strengths and support networks, being the sole survivor presents unique psychological challenges.

Did You Know? Less than 10% of individuals affected by disasters develop chronic, long-term mental health problems.

Survivor’s Guilt: A deep Dive

One of the most critically important challenges for sole survivors is “survivor’s guilt,” the feeling of guilt for having lived when others died.This can manifest in various ways, including feelings of responsibility, shame, or regret.

Studies show that guilt is widespread among trauma survivors and is associated with heightened psychopathological symptoms, such as severe anxiety, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts according to research.

Pro Tip: Engaging in private remembrance rituals can help survivors express grief and honour those who did not survive, fostering a sense of control and meaning.

Coping Mechanisms and Support systems

Processing the traumatic event is crucial for survivors. Seeking support from friends, family, community leaders, or faith leaders can help individuals navigate arduous feelings. Trauma anniversaries can amplify distress, making ongoing support even more critical.

However, lingering guilt and anxiety that interfere with daily life should not be ignored. Ongoing survivor’s guilt is associated with significantly higher levels of post-traumatic symptoms.

Survivors may require short-term and long-term support from psychologists or mental health professionals to address these complex emotions and potential PTSD.

The Role of Remembrance Rituals

Engaging in private remembrance rituals can be a valuable tool in processing feelings of grief and guilt. These rituals offer a sense of control and meaning, facilitating the expression and acceptance of loss.

Media attention surrounding collectively experienced dates can also amplify trauma-related distress, contributing to a cycle of media consumption and increased worry about future events.

What coping mechanisms do you think are most effective for dealing with survivor’s guilt? How can communities better support individuals who have experienced mass disasters?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered as professional medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms of survivor’s guilt or PTSD, please consult a qualified mental health professional.

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