A disaster survivor is experiencing difficulty sleeping after the disaster. What is a possible explanation for this?

Experiencing difficulty sleeping after a disaster can often be a normal reaction for survivors. Such events can be traumatic and may lead to increased anxiety and stress, which in turn affects sleep patterns. It is common for individuals who have undergone a disaster to experience a range of emotional and psychological responses, including insomnia, nightmares, and heightened alertness, as the body and mind attempt to process and cope with the traumatic experience.

In the context of disaster nursing, recognizing that difficulty in sleeping is a normal reaction allows healthcare providers to validate the survivor's experience and provide appropriate support and interventions. This understanding can contribute to effective care strategies, such as addressing the survivor's psychological needs and offering resources for stress management.