Amidst the reverberations of the chaos left behind by the blackout—or perhaps still suffering from its consequences, because when normality is lost in such a drastic way, it takes time to return—we are left, in most cases, with one central question: Will it happen again?
At 12:31 p.m. on Monday, Spain entered a period of confusion as a widespread power outage left millions of citizens without electricity for much of the day. This event caused problems with connections and transport, testing not only the energy infrastructure but also the emotional balance of the population.
Psychologically, the effects could go beyond the mere inconveniences of everyday life. Particularly vulnerable people could relive previous collective or individual traumas in this situation. However, experts emphasize that we can rely on our collective resilience, especially if we put aside differences and support one another in times of crisis.
Lack of Information
The blackout was a significant source of anxiety for many. Ana María Núñez Rubines, coordinator of the Disaster and Emergency Intervention Group at the Official School of Psychology of Galicia (COPG), explains: “It’s not just that we don’t have electricity, but that all our plans have suddenly been disrupted.” From the inability to cook food and the inability to get around due to the lack of basic services like gas stations to the loss of communication due to mobile network outages, the blackout led to a feeling of lack of control that had an emotional impact.
Added to this cocktail of uncertainty were the fake news that circulated due to the difficulty of accessing information. Theories about the extent, duration, and origin of the power outage spread on social media, fueling fear and anxiety. The psychologist warns that in times like these, it is essential to minimize contact with unverified information and rely on official sources, as excessive exposure to alarming news only increases unease.
Vulnerability and Resilience
Sonia Gómez Pardiñas, a psychiatrist at the University Hospital of A Coruña (Chuac), points out that while it is still too early to identify clinical consequences of the blackout, the emotional impact on particularly vulnerable populations should not be underestimated. “Older people, especially those living alone, as well as children and adolescents, are often the most vulnerable to situations of uncertainty,” she explains.
In addition, patients with a history of anxiety or mental health disorders may have experienced an exacerbation of their symptoms. However, Gómez emphasizes that not all consequences of such an event are immediately visible; some effects may only become apparent over time.
For many, Monday’s power outage was “just another event” in a series of crises that have characterized recent years: from the COVID-19 pandemic and the DANA in Valencia to armed conflict and climate change. Núñez points out that such events can make the population more psychologically vulnerable. As the expert explains, the perception that a series of adversities has accumulated can increase feelings of collective helplessness and engender an attitude of anxious resignation towards future unexpected events.
In addition, an event like this can reopen old wounds. “For example, when COVID-19 happened, people who had experienced hunger in the post-war period relived those scenes. They went to the supermarket and couldn’t find certain products. For others who weren’t in that situation, it might not be so bad. They don’t go shopping, and that’s it. On the other hand, those who have experienced a traumatic post-war situation can feel great anxiety about this reminder of their trauma,” explains Josep Vilajoana, coordinator of the Health Psychology Department of the General Council of Psychology.
Overall, such events allow us to recognize our collective resilience and appreciate our capacity to be better prepared for future challenges. Some people are already taking preventative measures, purchasing emergency kits, and creating action plans in case this situation occurs again. This reflects an active and adaptable attitude toward uncertainty. Such responses can mitigate the emotional impact of future eventualities.
“Uncertainty is always a factor that creates stress. However, the direct impact on mental health depends on the It all depends on individual predisposition. Past experiences offer us a certain protection and give us at least some tools to deal with this type of situation,” says Dr. Gómez.
“I would recommend that the most vulnerable try not to anticipate what might happen, keep their minds occupied with other issues, and focus on the present moment instead of worrying about possible future events that may never happen,” advises the psychiatrist. He also emphasizes the importance of avoiding information overload in stressful situations and supporting those most at risk.
One of the most disruptive elements of the blackout was the loss of internet connection and the collapse of mobile networks. This sudden isolation was particularly difficult for younger people to cope with. “Patients who are heavily dependent on social media or playing video games had it particularly difficult,” says Núñez. The expert anticipates that the forced interruption of digital access will be a recurring topic in counseling in the coming days. Gómez also points out that the loss of connection can trigger anxiety in people who are already vulnerable to it.
In a psychosocial context, information can be understood as a basic need. “If we recall Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, at the base are the most basic needs: food and sleep. A little higher up, there is a ceiling that is both physical and psychological. This means that people who support us are also part of this ceiling. Information that provides security also falls under this psychological ceiling. For example, if it is immediately stated that hospitals have generators and are adequately supplied, this reassures people,” explains Vilajoana.
An Unprepared System
One of the critical points both specialists observe is the inadequate structural preparation of the mental health system to deal with such events. Núñez emphasizes the need to properly integrate the role of psychologists into primary care centers and educational institutions and to provide immediate resources to those who need them most—especially in situations like these.
This is especially important when it comes to caring for children, as they may have experienced the blackout as a disturbing and distressing experience. Núñez suggests that psychologists in school settings could not only help manage specific crises but also develop lasting emotional tools from an early age.
The Importance of Community
Numerous studies have shown that social support networks act as buffers against stress and trauma. For this reason, Núñez emphasizes the importance of strengthening ties to communities: “A good support network helps us improve our coping skills and cultivate the resilience we often talk about.”
In crisis situations, simply leaving the house and seeing the neighbors or chatting at the door can be reassuring. Paradoxically, the power outage was a reminder of the importance of human connections. “The role of the community is to provide support and guidance when needed. The less isolated we are in these situations, the better—being together with family, neighbors, or friends helps us all,” says Vilajoana.
Strategies in the Face of the Unexpected
Monday’s power outage left emotional scars that, in some cases, need to be addressed. While emotions such as fear, frustration, helplessness, or restlessness are normal reactions to the unexpected, if they persist or escalate, it is advisable to seek professional help. It is also recommended to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist if sleep problems occur—a common complication after psychologically stressful events.
“The desperate search for information is a practice we should abandon. It’s not healthy to constantly read, access social media, or use our mobile phones. In exceptional situations like these, it’s better to choose a trusted, official channel and use the information it provides to reduce the noise as much as possible. Anxiety causes us to overestimate potential threats. Therefore, it can also be helpful to practice breathing and relaxation exercises whenever the opportunity arises. We should not forget that such events do not depend on us,” advises Vilajoana.
Finally, he recommends preparing for future events. “The lessons we can learn from this situation to be better prepared next time will only become apparent if we accept the situation. It is of little use to deny it and believe it won’t happen again, even if that is understandable, as it is a human desire,” concludes the expert.
Psychologist Lara Ferreiro offers valuable tips for dealing with the halo of uncertainty and fear that can arise in such situations. She points out that “60% of Spaniards have already experienced psychological symptoms triggered by the blackout or will experience them in the coming days.” Ferreiro describes the current situation as a “historic moment” and calls it “absolute ground zero,” something that has never happened before. It is crucial to learn how to cope with it.
First, she clarifies that we will go through a phase of “agonic grief.” First, we will experience shock, followed by a one- to two-day period of anxiety during the adjustment period. Eventually, we enter the “this has already happened” phase. This process can take about a month. After this period, she recommends seeking professional help.
Possible symptoms include stress, anxiety, claustrophobia on the subway or in the elevator, hypervigilance about the future, “FOMO” (fear of missing out because you don’t have a cell phone), apocalyptic paranoia about future events, and uncontrollable hypochondria. These feelings may become more pronounced in the coming days, she explains. We may also experience sleep disturbances and even “retraumatization,” the return of unpleasant moods we experienced during the pandemic. The list of mental health issues, according to Ferreiro, will be far from short.
So how can we deal with this “pack” that’s coming our way?
Imagine this “pack” as a wave of uncertainty and potential difficulties rolling toward us. How do we face it without being overwhelmed?
First of all: We allow the emotions that will arise during this initial phase. It’s perfectly fine to feel uncertain or anxious when things change. That’s human. We don’t try to push these feelings away, but rather acknowledge them, like an experienced hiker who accepts the weather as it is.
Then: We activate our inner “monk’s law.” This means we focus on the present moment, on the next step we can take. Instead of getting lost in possible horror scenarios, we stay in the here and now. What can we do now? What small task can we accomplish now?
For practical preparation: We put together a small basic package—some non-perishable food, batteries, perhaps a first-aid kit. But we don’t resort to panic buying. We act prudently, like someone preparing for a hike: with the bare essentials, without unnecessary baggage.
If the wave of fear does rise, we use our breathing anchors. The 5×5 breathing pattern is like a calm harbor in a stormy sea. Inhale deeply five times, exhale slowly five times – this brings us back to balance, to the present moment.
To avoid getting lost in the flood of false information, let’s create an “information detox.” We seek out reliable sources and avoid anything that only serves to stir up panic. Clear, trustworthy information is like a lighthouse that shows us the way.
And finally, let’s give ourselves a grace period. If certain things scare us in the moment, we don’t force ourselves to do them immediately. But we remain vigilant. After this first week, we observe ourselves. Do we develop avoidance strategies? Then it’s important to work gently but firmly on not falling into these patterns. It’s like after an injury: We give ourselves time to heal, but we ensure that the muscles don’t atrophy.
This is how we deal with this “pack”: mindful, prepared, and focused on the present moment, while simultaneously acknowledging our emotions and protecting ourselves from unnecessary anxiety. What do you think about this? Is there another aspect we should consider more closely?
