Behaviors and Their Characteristics in Psychiatric Inpatients after Disasters: Analysis from an Adaptation Perspective.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the behavioral characteristics of psychiatric inpatients following disasters.

METHODS

Data were collected from 2 psychiatric hospitals in Japan, 1 affected by the Northern Osaka Earthquake (magnitude 6.1, seismic intensity 6) on June 18, 2018, and the other impacted by torrential rainstorms (total rainfall reaching 1800 mm; 224 fatalities, 8 missing) between June 28 and July 8, 2018. Focus group interviews were conducted with 24 nursing staff members from each hospital, divided into 8 groups.

RESULTS

A total of 158 inpatient behaviors were identified and organized into 19 themes. To delineate behavioral patterns, these behaviors were interpreted as adaptive (53.1%), maladaptive (22.2%), or unclassifiable (24.7%). Among maladaptive behaviors requiring prioritized care, 56.8% were associated with psychiatric disorders, while 43.2% reflected general disaster-related reactions.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychiatric inpatients demonstrated adaptive responses alongside typical disaster-related behaviors, with some behaviors attributable to underlying psychiatric conditions. Post-disaster care for psychiatric inpatients should emphasize strategies that support adaptability and protection. Additionally, targeted care for maladaptive behaviors specific to psychiatric conditions and vigilant observation of patients who do not display overtly agitated behaviors are critical.