Mental health service demand rises following natural disasters in Spain and Colombia

Natural disasters in Spain and Colombia have led to a significant surge in demand for mental health services. In the Valencian Community, Spain, following the 2024 DANA floods, the number of patients receiving care has reached record levels. Officials note that the increase in demand—with the mental health workforce growing by 60% in two years—is largely due to improved access and the ability to identify previously unmet needs rather than a decline in general population health. New infrastructure is being developed, including the Trauma Care Reference Center (CRAT) in Picanya, which will focus on post-traumatic stress and violence victims.

Similarly, in Cali, Colombia, the aftermath of the August 10 earthquake has caused a doubling of calls for psychological assistance. Health Secretary Germán Escobar reported that emotional distress remains high more than a month after the seismic event. Beyond mental health, the earthquake has also impacted physical healthcare infrastructure, with over 400 private medical offices undergoing damage assessments and three clinics remaining closed.