Disasters can bring about significant stress. 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 resilient—meaning we are designed to “bounce back” from difficult times.
In
the days following a disaster, it is common for you, your family and friends to experience a variety of
reactions. Feelings of exhaustion, worry, and anger can surface, especially if you’ve had to leave
your home or have had to contend with the frustrations of having no electricity, have had to clean up
disaster debris, or have had to wait in long lines for disaster assistance... 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 friends.
• 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.
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 two weeks or more, this
may be a sign that you need to reach out for additional assistance.
• Crying spells or bursts of anger
• Difficulty eating and sleeping
• Losing interest in things
• Increased physical symptoms, such
as headaches, stomachaches,
• Fatigue
• Feeling guilty, helpless or
hopeless
• Avoiding family and 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 may be common
responses to difficult situations. These reactions can include:
Taking Action
Getting ourselves and our lives back in a routine that is comfortable for us takes time. Each positive action you take can
help you feel better and more in control. Here are some helpful tips that may help put your priorities in place and help you
take care of yourself and your loved ones:
• 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.
• Finally, stay positive. Remind yourself of how you’ve successfully gotten through difficult times
in the past. Reach out when you need support, and help others when they need it.
Each positive
action you take
can help
you feel better
and more
in control
TAKING CARE OF YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
After a Disaster
For additional resources, contact your local Red Cross Disaster Mental Health or community mental health professional.
Please seek immediate help if you or someone you know is feeling that life isn’t worth living or if you are having thoughts of
harming yourself or others. You can also call the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
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