Mental and Reproductive Health Disorders Due to Natural Hazzard (Study on Post Merapi Eruption to Women in Temporary Dwelling, Kuwang Cangkringan Sleman)

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore the condition of women as victims of Mt. Merapi eruption in Java Indonesia. The mental and reproductive health problems due to natural hazard can take up long time. Women and children are more prone to post-traumatic disorders. Findings from the data collected revealed that stressor from the disaster have positive impacts on depression, urinary tract infections (UTI) and menstrual disorders (reproductive health problems). The huge explosion in 2010 followed by the smaller eruptions which regularly exposed by the volcano made the residents could no longer live in their previous properties in the mountain feet. Their life has changed and adaptation is not always easy. In depth interviews revealed that surviving from huge loss is not easy. Lacking from non-farming skills made finding job is difficult. The numbers of people with mental disorders from Merapi eruption is quite significant and some remain in the psychiatric treatment.  Government and community intervention are expected to help survival and minimize the negative impacts.