Virginia Cooperative Extension
A natural disaster not only leaves a trail of property destruction
in its wake, many times it leaves thousands of its victims with
a damaged sense of balance. In addition to restoring buildings
and replacing material possessions, during the recovery period,
victims may need to devote time to restoring their own emotional
equilibrium. This can be especially important for children who
do not have years of life experience to guide them.
- Be
extra patient.
- Determine
what's really important, keeping in mind that your spouse's
viewpoint on what should be considered top priority may
be different from yours.
- Don't
expect things to instantly restore themselves. Accept that
restoration (both physical and emotional) takes time.
- Realize
that disaster victims have suffered losses and it's natural
for them to express disbelief, anger, sadness, anxiety,
and depression afterwards.
- Realize
that the emotions of victims will roller-coaster and moods
can change unexpectedly.
- Don't
overlook the feelings of children as you deal with the situation.
They need to feel that they can count on you for the extra
attention, love and support needed to get through.
- Reassure
them, making sure they understand they are not responsible
for the problems you face.
- Try
to keep your family diet as nourishing as possible under
the circumstances.
- Refocusing
on the big picture, instead of the little details and the
little problems, will give you a sense of competency.
- Talk
with friends, family, counselors or members of the clergy.
In crisis situations, a supportive network is essential.
- Be
aware of the tendency to resort to bad habits when you are
under stress.
Disclaimer
and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not represent
NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears by permission
of the author and/or copyright holder. More
NASD Review: 04/2002
Based on
information developed by Clemson Cooperative Extension following
Hurricane Hugo. Revised for Virginia audiences by Virginia Cooperative
Extension.
For
more information, contact your local office of Virginia Cooperative
Extension.
Publication
Number
490-308
,
August 1996
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