Deep sorrow has overwhelmed all of us following the indescribable and painful disaster the country has been through since February 6th. In fact, even the word sorrow is not enough to describe how we are feeling. A fundamental emotion that keeps us alive, our sense of security, has suffered a terrible wound.

Psychologist Abraham Maslow has a very important theory where he arranged a list of the most essential things a person needs to survive. According to the “Hierarchy of Needs” theory, a person's primary need is physiological, that is, breathing, food, water, excretion, sleep, which constitute the foundation of the pyramid.

The second level of the pyramid is security. Once a creature has managed to survive, it should be able to lead a safe and peaceful life. When you do not feel secure, you will not be able to make an effort to be the best version of yourself. This level can include various subheadings such as personal security, emotional security, financial stability, resources, health, and well-being.

The third level of the pyramid is love and a sense of belonging. Friendship, family, and privacy are found in this section. Does belonging to a place, to someone, or to society actually not reinforce our sense of security? People cannot live alone; they need the presence of others to survive. Social needs such as living with others, being accepted by others, friendship, love, and being loved bear great importance for individuals.

Respect is found on the fourth level of the pyramid. This level includes self-esteem, self-confidence, success, respect for others, and respect from others. The last level before the top is the need for self-esteem. That is, the feeling of being privileged and successful. It is a little bit related to our ego side - the feeling that our place and value in society are seen, noticed, and cared for by others. After all, most people want to be respected. No one wants to be abused by others or pushed around. This is where our sense of independence, our self-confidence, and our search for freedom come from. The previous level unites with this level to form our psychological needs.

At the top of the pyramid, we see the need for self-actualization. Each individual has their own talents and personality. Everyone feels the need to develop and prove these characteristics. However, in order to meet this need, the needs in other lower levels must be adequately met. Otherwise, it is not possible for individuals to realize themselves.

Now that I look at it, many people are still stuck in the first level of the pyramid after the earthquake based on the list of human needs to survive. From then onwards, the need for security has been interrupted. For those of us who did not experience the earthquake firsthand, the problem has emerged from the second level of the pyramid: security.

So, how can we fix this?

Starting from the opposite side of the pyramid is not such a bad idea. There must be something that self-developed individuals can use their unique talents to provide for those who expect help to the extent of their skills. Let it be money, food, education, shelter, and even showing affection by hugging, or just listening to the other person.

Think about it, what is your most defining characteristic and ability? What can you do that will help someone else? In what activities can you volunteer to benefit others?

Feeling useful is one of the most important emotions that make us feel valuable. It is without a doubt that we are all very sad. Yes, our sense of security has been shattered, but are we going to bow down and do nothing? Are we not going to use our capabilities for the benefit of others, those who need them? Get up and start the day asking yourself “What can I do?” Write down what you can do, make a list, and do something.