Seven-Year Stress Reactions And Resilience Of Public School Teachers: Basis For Proposed Intervention For Calamity Survivors

Abstract

The study is aimed to identify the disaster stress reactions and resiliency  of typhoon Sendong  survivors after seven years. Purposively selected were public- school teacher participants from the City of Cagayan de Oro. The study is a qualitative research using Thematic Analysis  of the stress reactions, coping strategies, and social support. Findings from the study showed  the following disaster stress reactions: Kanunay ana sa hunahuna (Cognitive Reaction- flashbacks, muddled thought);  Mga kaimtang (Physical Reaction-hunger, disease, relocation, nervousness); Mga kasakit (Emotional Reaction-anxiety, anger, fear sadness); Pagkawalay mahimo (Socio-Behavioral Reaction-help seeking behavior, helplessness); and Pag ampo ug  Pagsalig sa Ginoo (Spiritual Reaction- faith in God, hope for family’s safety). It identified  the  participants’ resiliency during  the calamity , such as:  Kinaiyahan (Attitude-acceptance, helpfulness, gratitude); Espirituhanong Pagtuo (Spirituality-faith, hope); and Pagtinabangay (Support-internal:family, external:community)  It also identified   six resiliency themes after  seven years: Espirituhanong Pagtuo (Spirituality-faith in God); Pagsusi kanunay sa Pamilya (Monitoring Family-communicating, connecting);  Pagpangandam (Preparedness-listening to news, game plan, survival kit, safety storage), Maayong mga Panumduman (Savoring/ Treasuring-good memories, positive self-image); Kalingawan (Entertainment- engaging in interests, use of gadgets); and   Pagtutok sa uban nga butang (Intentional Focus-being preoccupied). A community-based resilience program ,   “Hapsay”, was proposed to assist, give closure and empower members of the community especially the victims of disasters.