PTSD and depression in adult survivors of flood fury in Kashmir: The payoffs of social support

Exposure to disasters such as floods predisposes individuals for psychological distress such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Researchers exploring the association between flood-exposure and psychopathology attempt to understand the conditions and mechanisms through which potential benefits may occur. One such potential factor that may contribute to resilience in the face of disaster is social support system. However, there is scarcity of researches concerning the protective effects of social support following floods, in adult samples. Thus, the present study examined the moderating and indirect effects of perceived social support from family and friends in the association between flood-exposure and symptoms of PTSD and depression. The study was a cross sectional in nature. Survey data were collected from 87 adult survivors of flood fury in Kashmir valley, aged 30–40. High level of family and friends’ support reduced the association between flood-exposure and symptoms of PTSD and depression whereas a low level of such support enhanced this association. Results also suggested that family support carried a significant proportion of variance in predicting depression. Given the potential for negative mental health outcomes following natural disasters, efforts to enhance adults’ social support may be especially important. •Flood-exposure is substantially associated with PTSD and depression symptoms.•Flood-exposure marginally influences support system by disrupting support networks.•Social support system moderates the relationship between flood-exposure and symptoms of PTSD and depression.•No evidence was observed with regard to indirect effect of flood-exposure on PTSD via social support system.•The family support system carried a significant proportion of variance in predicting depression.