Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and wildfires, can lead to significant anxiety for many individuals. Experts emphasize the importance of having a safety plan to mitigate stress during these times. Ruben Juarez, a health economist at the University of Hawaii, highlights preparation as a crucial tool for both safety and mental health. His insights stem from directing the Maui Wildfires Exposure Study, which examined the impacts of the 2023 fires.
Preparation and Community Support
Kevin Westmoreland, co-owner of The Corner Kitchen in Asheville, North Carolina, shared his experience with Hurricane Helene, which caused severe damage to his restaurant. He found meditation and breathing exercises helpful in managing stress. Experts recommend creating an evacuation plan and assembling an emergency kit to provide a sense of control during disasters. Resources like ready.gov/plan and the American Red Cross offer guides for hurricane preparedness, including considerations for individuals with special needs and pets.
Staying informed through trusted sources and maintaining communication with friends, family, or therapists can also alleviate anxiety. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America suggests sharing concerns with supportive individuals and engaging in positive activities like volunteering or donating blood to counteract feelings of helplessness.
Managing Family and Personal Well-being
Parents are encouraged to discuss extreme weather with children in a straightforward manner, explaining that storms are a natural occurrence. It’s important to acknowledge the stress of these situations while avoiding panic, as children often mirror adult reactions. Melissa Brymer, a psychologist, advises limiting certain conversations to adults to prevent unnecessary worry among children.
Community-wide mental health effects can occur even if individuals are not directly affected by a disaster, as seen in the Maui wildfires study. Westmoreland emphasized the importance of perspective, focusing on the safety of employees over material losses. The Anxiety and Depression Association advises seeking professional help if symptoms persist for several weeks, as this may indicate post-traumatic stress disorder.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
