ASC Assesses Victims After Beirut Explosion Using HADS Scale

After the Beirut port explosion, we collaborated with the Imam Sadr Foundation to tend to some of its victims. On October 5 , 2020, we decided to contact needy families that were affected by the blast to help them. The help focused on psychosocial support and basic needs.

We asked them a couple of questions to assess whether anyone was in need of psychological help. These questions are taken from the the Institute for Development, Research, Advocacy and Applied Care’s (IDRAAC’s) Arabic adaptation of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

For example, we asked whether they still enjoyed doing the things they used to do, if they care for their appearance or have lost interest, and if they feel scared suddenly. If they scored high on the scale, then it was an indicator that they needed direct support.

We had the opportunity to come into contact with these people, witness their daily lives, and help them with issues they were dealing with. At the end of the session, the foundation also distributed food coupons among the families.