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By Australian Red Cross
Date: 09 Oct 2009
Communities affected by the tsunami in Samoa will be given space to grieve over the coming weeks, according to Kathleen Walsh , Australian Red Cross aid worker.
"People have had some devastating losses in terms of their family members and their properties," added Walsh. 'We usually predict that 10-15 percent of the affected population will require some psychological intervention.
She mentioned that "However, we know that it takes four to six weeks for more serious psychological issues to emerge after a major trauma, so the message we want to generate is that everyone needs time for the natural grieving process."
Samoan counselors working with the government and local organizations have confirmed that families will be provided the opportunity and space to deal with their loss over the coming weeks, and contact details for counselors have already been distributed among communities.
"Today's memorial will be very difficult for a lot of families, but it will also be supportive. Here in Samoa people's strongest supports are through their families and their religion. For many, tomorrow will be a really important ritual," said Walsh.
She added that "The Red Cross has been involved in coordinating in-country support services. The primary role of Red Cross in Samoa right now is to make sure that people get the right service in the right place. This includes ensuring that wellbeing needs are met. We are also playing a role in filling gaps in support of affected families and communities."
Kathleen Walsh's role also includes providing support to more than 100 Samoan Red Cross volunteers, who have been working around the clock since the earthquake and tsunami rocked the islands.
"The situation is the same for our volunteers early days, people are busy, they are action-oriented, but I am committed to ensure that their psychological wellbeing is being monitored, and necessary support is put in place."
Australian Red Cross workers will join Samoan communities at a ceremony to be held in Apia.
To make a donation to the Pacific Tsunami (Samoa & Tonga) Appeal go to Red Crossor phone 1800 811 700
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