As a result of the devastating flood that struck the Comunidad Valenciana last autumn, local healthcare services faced an unprecedented influx of patients experiencing acute psycho-emotional reactions. In recent months, more than two thousand people have sought help from specialized units established to support those affected by the disaster.
Doctors have particularly noted a sharp increase in cases of acute and post-traumatic stress disorder. According to experts, the number of requests for help in the affected areas has risen by more than 170% compared to the region’s usual figures. Around one thousand patients experienced acute stress reactions, while 887 were diagnosed with post-traumatic disorders.
At the same time, in contrast to earlier concerns, the number of emergency hospitalizations due to self-harm decreased by almost 8.5% in the 11 months following the catastrophe. This outcome is attributed to the expansion of psychiatric and psychological staff: 159 new positions have been created in the hardest-hit areas, and the total number of specialists has increased by nearly half. Authorities note that access to specialized care is now easier, and referral pathways from general practitioners to psychiatrists have become more transparent.
In August and September 2025, a large-scale survey was conducted among residents of the municipalities most affected by the disaster. More than two thousand adults aged 18 to 70 took part in the study. Preliminary results showed that nearly one in three adults (27.6%) experienced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Women proved to be more vulnerable than men: among women, this rate reached 30.5%, compared to 24.6% among men. For comparison, international studies after similar disasters report PTSD rates as high as 50%.
From the earliest days after the flood, 13 mobile psychiatric teams operated in the region, with a total of 124 specialists. They provided support to more than a thousand people. An emergency center at Feria Valencia treated another 749 victims, where 55 professionals were deployed. Special attention was also given to children: special screening offices for early identification of psychological issues were opened in schools, where 30 psychologists have already worked with 562 students.
The municipalities hardest hit by the disaster received additional subsidies to develop addiction prevention programs, with funding increasing by one third. This underscores the authoritiesβ commitment not only to rebuilding infrastructure but also to supporting the emotional wellbeing of residents.
A new center for working with severe psychological trauma is set to open soon in Picanya. A total of β¬1.2 million has been allocated for its creation. The center will provide support not only for flood victims, but also for other vulnerable groups, including women who have experienced domestic violence and minors.
