Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods can lead to heightened anxiety among individuals and communities. Experts emphasize the importance of having a safety plan to mitigate stress and maintain mental well-being during such events.
Preparation as a Tool for Mental Health
Ruben Juarez, a health economist at the University of Hawaii, highlights preparation as a crucial tool not only for physical safety but also for mental health. Juarez, who led the Maui Wildfires Exposure Study, notes that having a plan can significantly reduce anxiety during disasters.
Kevin Westmoreland, co-owner of The Corner Kitchen in Asheville, North Carolina, experienced firsthand the stress of extreme weather when Hurricane Helene caused severe flooding in his restaurant. He found that meditation and breathing exercises helped him cope with the stress, emphasizing the importance of mental preparation.
Creating a Safety Plan
Melissa Brymer, a psychologist at the UCLA-Duke National Center for Child Traumatic Stress, advises families to create evacuation plans and assemble emergency kits. Resources such as ready.gov/plan and the American Red Cross provide guides for hurricane preparedness. Brymer stresses the importance of considering special needs, including those of new and expectant mothers, individuals with disabilities, and pets.
Staying informed through trusted sources and maintaining awareness of weather updates can also provide a sense of control, reducing anxiety. Sharing concerns with friends, family, or therapists can offer additional support.
Supporting Children and Community
Parents are encouraged to discuss storms with children in a straightforward manner, helping them understand that such events are normal. Limiting adult conversations about stress around children can prevent unnecessary worry. Brymer notes that children often mirror the emotions of adults, so maintaining calm is crucial.
Juarez’s study on the Maui wildfires found that mental health impacts were widespread, affecting even those not directly in the disaster zone. This underscores the importance of community support and awareness of mental health needs during and after extreme weather events.
Engaging in positive activities, such as volunteering or helping others, can provide a sense of purpose and counteract feelings of helplessness. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America suggests seeking support from those facing similar challenges and being mindful of persistent symptoms that may indicate post-traumatic stress disorder.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
