the survey (Reference number 21/2551). Data
collection consisted of face-to-face interviews carried
out in a temporary housing structure, a home, or
a school. The children were interviewed by mental
health professionals from DMH. Children in need
of mental health support were referred to mental
health services available both in temporary shelters
and in community areas. First assessment was
conducted from February 15th to February 22 ,
2005 in Phang Nga, Phuket and Krabi provinces.
According to high prevalence rate of mental health
problems among affected people in Phang Nga in
the first assessment, the second assessment was
conducted in the same popuiatbn orily in Phang Nga
province from September 7th to 12th. 2005
(9 months after tsunami). The third assessment
was conducted from February 11th and 18'h, 2008
(3 years after tsunami) by DMH. All parents or
guardians and children in this study were asked
for verbal informed consent. Children who lost
their homes or home damaged and lived in the
temporary shelters were defined as displaced
children.