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Everyone reacts differently following a disaster. Most reactions are considered normal and are temporary. Anticipating possible reactions, though, can help you successfully transition.
As you prepare to return home, consider these common reactions:
- Irritability and anger
- Loss of appetite
- Nightmares
- Headaches
- Hyperactivity
- Hyper-alertness
- Fatigue
- Inability to sleep
- Sadness
- Nausea
- Lack of concentration
- Increase in alcohol or drug consumption
Below are some strategies that may help you cope with the reactions:
- Talk with someone about your feelings - anger, sorrow, and other emotions - even though it may be difficult.
- Seek help from professional counselors who deal with post-disaster stress.
- Do not hold yourself responsible for the disastrous event or be frustrated because you feel you cannot help directly in the rescue work.
- Take steps to promote your own physical and emotional healing by healthy eating, rest, exercise, relaxation, and meditation.
- Maintain a normal family and daily routine, limiting demanding responsibilities on yourself and your family.
- Spend time with family and friends.
- Use existing support groups of family, friends, and religious institutions.
- Ensure you are ready for future events by restocking your disaster supplies kits and updating your family disaster plan. Doing these positive actions can be comforting.
