Occupational Therapy Eases the Suffering of Tsunami Victims

Abstract

The Tsunami destroyed several coastal towns in South Thailand, which affected infrastructures, family structures and the livelihood of many people. The Volunteer Club for Community Development of Chiang Mai University had a vision to alleviate suffering of the survivors and reconsolidate communities. Two months after the Tsunami, students from the only occupational therapy school in Thailand were bussed approximately 700 miles to one of the affected areas. The purpose was to apply their new skills in relieving mental suffering through constructive tasks, diversion and social activities. Conclusively, the participants learned some new abilities to cope with their new situations.

Keywords:

• Tsunami
• occupational therapy students
• constructive tasks
• social activities