Panic Attack After Earthquake Scare in Kolkata; Experts Highlight Psychological Aftershocks

A 23-year-old woman was diagnosed with a panic attack following an earthquake scare, according to a medical prescription dated February 27, 2026.

The prescription, issued by Dr. Sumit Saha, a consultant physician and neuropsychiatrist, records the patient’s name as Arpita Dey, aged 23. The diagnosis noted on the document states “Panic attack following earthquake.”

A reading taken during the check showed the heart beating 122 times each minute, though values might shift slightly on repeat tests. Blood pressure stood at 110 over 80 millimeters of mercury when recorded by hand. Oxygen levels reached full capacity, no shortage detected in circulation. When pulses climb like this, experts often link it to sudden emotional strain rather than physical illness. One clue could lie in how tense the person felt right before measurements.

A pill for anxiety shows up on the list, Zapiz at 0.25 mg, followed by Panazep LS or Paxonil Plus LS instead of it sometimes, plus capsules called Pazop DSR mixed in. Two weeks later, a check in makes sense. Some lab work got flagged too, needed down the line.

How natural disasters affect mental health

Folks who study minds say quakes smash buildings, yet also mess with thoughts just as much. Out of nowhere, a jolt like that might spark panic, even if someone never felt anxious before.

A sudden shake might stop, yet minds keep feeling it, so says Dr. Amit Dias, a psychiatrist based in Goa.

“Earthquakes do not end when the tremors stop. For many survivors, the psychological aftershocks continue for months or even years. It is common for people to experience anxiety, sleep disturbances, fear of entering buildings, and in some cases Post, Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), he said.

It turns out some folks carry invisible scars long after disaster strikes. One report showed up to one in five people might struggle months later. Trauma tends to stick around when bodies are hurt, connections broken, or homes lost. The deeper the shock, the heavier the mental load often becomes.

However, Dr. Dias emphasised that most stress reactions are normal and tend to improve with time and social support. Early psychological first aid, community support systems, access to counselling, and timely mental health care can prevent long, term complications. Recognising distress early and seeking help without stigma is crucial. Disaster response must address not only physical safety, but emotional recovery as well, he said.

Finding yourself anxious, heart racing, passing out, or struggling to sleep following a trauma? Doctors suggest reaching out for help without delay. Talking to someone trained might make things clearer. A checkup could rule out physical causes. Support comes in many forms, not just pills. Sometimes simply sharing what happened shifts something inside. Getting care early often eases longer, term strain. The body holds onto stress in surprising ways. Night after night of broken rest takes its toll. Moments of panic can feel endless when alone. Professional guidance isnt about fixing fast, its about understanding better. Help exists because healing rarely travels straight lines.