Each positive action you take can help you feel better and more in control.
- This is especially true if you have experienced a previous disaster.
- The good news is that many people have experience coping with
stressful life events and are naturally resilientmeaning we are
designed to bounce back from difficult times.
- Here is some information on how to recognize your current
feelings and tips for taking care of the emotional health of you, your
family and your friends.
What you may be feeling now
When we experience a disaster or other stressful life
event, we can have a variety of reactions, all of which can be common
responses to difficult situations.
These reactions can include:
- Feeling physically and mentally drained.
- Having difficulty making decisions or staying focused on topics.
- Becoming easily frustrated on a frequent basis.
- Frustration occurring more quickly and more often.
- Arguing more with family and friends.
- Feeling tired, sad, numb, lonely or worried.
- Experiencing changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
Most of these reactions are temporary and will go away over time.
Try to accept whatever reactions you may have. Look for ways to take
one step at a time and focus on taking care of your disaster-related
needs and those of your family.
Getting ourselves and our lives back in a routine that is comfortable for us takes time.
- Take care of your safety. Find a safe place to
stay and make sure your physical health needs and those of your family
are addressed. Seek medical attention, if necessary.
- Eat healthy. During times of stress, it is important that you maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.
- Get some rest. With so much to do, it may be
difficult to have enough time to rest or get adequate sleep. Giving your
body and mind a break can boost your ability to cope with the stress
you may be experiencing.
- Stay connected with family and friends. Giving and getting support is one of the most important things you can do.
- Be patient with yourself and with those around you. Recognize that everyone is stressed and may need some time to put their feelings and thoughts in order.
- Set priorities. Tackle tasks in small steps.
- Gather information about assistance and resources that will help you and your family members meet your disaster-related needs.
- Stay positive. Remind yourself of how youve
successfully gotten through difficult times in the past. Reach out when
you need support, and help others when they need it.
If you still don't feel better
Many people have experience coping with stressful life events and
typically feel better after a few days. Others find that their stress
does not go away as quickly as they would like and it influences their
relationships with their family, friends and others.
If you find yourself or a loved one experiencing some of the feelings
and reactions listed below for 2 weeks or longer, this may be a sign
that you need to reach out for additional assistance.
- Crying spells or bursts of anger
- Difficulty eating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Losing interest in things
- Increased physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches
- Fatigue
- Feeling guilty, helpless or hopeless
- Avoiding family and friends
For additional resources, contact your local Red Cross Disaster Mental Health or community mental health professional.
