VUB examines impact of terrorist attacks on public wellbeing

Scientists at the Free University of Brussels (VUB) have launched a survey to measure the impact of the terrorist attacks last week on the health of the population. The survey will focus on residents’ physical and mental condition following the attacks, particularly feelings of anxiety. It will also measure the extent to which respondents express these emotions.

All the questions relate specifically to last week’s suicide bombings at Brussels Airport and Maelbeek metro station. The survey was created by VUB’s Mental Health and Wellbeing research group and is being co-ordinated by medical anthropologist Reginald Deschepper. The goal of the study is to get a comprehensive overview of the impact of terrorism to ensure that proper measures are taken to limit the impact and negative consequences on public health following any future incidents.

Anyone can take part in the online survey, which takes approximately 10 minutes. The survey is anonymous, and the answers will only be used for scientific research.

Photo: Sander de Wilde/CORBIS