The present note discusses some simple intervention tools in answering requests that involve emotional stresses triggered by fears of earthquakes. To illustrate these suggestions, readers will find in Appendix 1, an example of a letter received by the first author, and in Appendix 2, an example of a reply to such a request. Suggestions First, earth scientists who deal with people who fear earthquakes, should reassure them about the normality of their reactions. While geoscientists deal with earthquakes on a daily basis, most people consider earthquakes to be very uncommon and stressful. It is perfectly normal to feel anxious when confronted with a real or perceived danger.
Earth scientists can reassure people that it is normal to feel uneasy about earthquakes.
Fear is not a sign of weakness, it is a natural mechanism to protect oneself from an immediate or potential danger. The empathy shown should ease communication between the specialist and the person. Second, by listening, geoscientists can validate the emotional experience of these persons. For them, exchanging ideas with you, the earth specialist, may be their first opportunity to speak about their feelings about earthquakes. Third, geoscientists should provide accurate and relevant information to demystify earthquake processes.