Psychosocial support for indigenous people in disasters and public health emergencies

Abstract

With the increase in extreme events triggered by climate change, it is crucial to understand how public policies focused on responding to disasters and public health emergencies propose actions with specific populations within the affected territories. The aim of the current study is to present central categories for an appropriate approach to psychosocial support for indigenous peoples in disasters and public health emergencies. To this end, we conducted a critical analysis of the scientific and technical literature on the subject, integrating these findings to recommendations from public policies in force in Brazil. Moreover, we discussed these aspects together considering perspectives from internationally renowned indigenous leaders, as well as from our professional experiences with native communities and traditional peoples, and/or in the context of extreme events. Among the categories to be considered in the construction of psychosocial support strategies for indigenous populations affected by disasters and public health emergencies, the following were highlighted: Diversity of understandings about the phenomena; Intercultural communication; Respect for the elderly; Body-territory; Collective identity and processing of the potentially traumatic situation; The city is an indigenous territory; Respect for social organization; A science and a medicine of its own; Grief and the centrality of spirituality. Additionally, a summary of recommendations was made for managers and professionals of the Brazilian Psychosocial Care Network, aiming at promoting Buen Vivir in the context of extreme events, guaranteeing the principles of universality, integrality and equanimity, supported by the Unified Health System.