Sri Lanka’s health sector is urging the public to seek mental health support through the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) hotline 1926 if they are experiencing stress following the recent disaster.

Dr. Miyuru Chandradasa, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at the Ragama Teaching Hospital, said psychological distress is common after major disasters and encouraged individuals to recognise symptoms such as anger, insomnia, loss of appetite, and fatigue and seek help early. 

Those severely affected should visit the nearest government hospital, he advised.

Addressing children’s mental well-being, Dr. Chandradasa stressed the importance of restoring routines, creating opportunities for play and social interaction with friends.