How to deal with loss, stress, and anxiety after a disaster

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How to deal with loss, stress, and anxiety after a disasterAs it turned out, hurricanes Irma and Maria caused colossal damage. Moreover, they have had a devastating impact on the emotional and mental health of those who have been victims of these natural disasters.
In the United States earlier this month, the extremely powerful and devastating Hurricane Irma caused significant damage to the Caribbean and the Florida Keys. Irma was immediately followed by hurricane Maria. The result was widespread catastrophic damage.

These horrific natural disasters are a continuation of Hurricane Harvey, which devastated parts of Texas this August. Wildfires blazed throughout the summer in the western United States and Canada. In September, Mexicans faced the aftermath of three major earthquakes.

Given that people are in real danger in such dire circumstances, many continue to experience the negative effects of stress and fear.

What the experts say

Experts in the field of psychology have proven that the consequences of natural disasters have a significant impact on the mental state of a person and the symptoms of mental disorder become apparent. In a study conducted after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, scientists documented changes in the mental and physical health of several hundred low-income families. The results showed that nearly half of the affected people had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Its impact on the well-being of people lasted for a year or more.

Yuval Neria, MD, professor of psychology and director of the PTSD treatment and research program at Columbia University Medical Center explains: “Usually what we see first is anxiety, fear, distracted attention and difficulty in work ... If do not pay attention to such symptoms, then with self-medication, the abuse of psychotropic substances is dangerous. PTSD is also a cause for serious concern, ”says the professor.

PTSD is a complex of psychological reactions to trauma or life-threatening events. It manifests itself in feelings of fear, anxiety, and memories of trauma. PTSD can last for a long time and even interfere with a normal life.

Traumatic stress symptoms

James Schultz, Ph.D., director of the Center for Disaster Management and Disaster Relief at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine, says people who are life-threatening during natural disasters are more prone to PTSD. Given the 24/7 flow of disturbing news with horrific scenes and reporting, anyone affected by such disasters can experience symptoms of traumatic stress as well as feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.

How to deal with loss, stress, and anxiety after a disasterTypical PTSD Symptoms:

Obsessive thoughts
Insomnia and nightmares
Feeling more angry and anxious than usual
Increased startle response
Isolation
Difficulty concentrating
Emotional struggle with ordinary daily life

PTSD symptoms usually begin immediately after a traumatic event, but can also appear months or even years later. If symptoms last more than 3 days, then it could be an acute stress disorder. But if they last more than 4 weeks and are destructive or disturbing, then most likely it is PTSD.

Because the initial symptoms of PTSD may not appear immediately, treatment is usually not recommended until two weeks after the traumatic experience. Before seeking professional help, and even if it is not required, you need to start taking care of your health. Reduce stressors that can exacerbate the trauma.

Tips for helping

Here are some tips to help you recover from your disaster-related injuries:

Reduce the influence of the media on the aftermath of the disaster.
Allow me to express your feelings and do not try to suppress them, as this will slow down the healing process.
Connect with people who could support you.
Restore your daily routine: consistency is soothing.
Eat natural products, if possible, avoid the use of convenience foods and instant foods.
You must realize that recovery is a process. Be patient while waiting for improvement.
Take appropriate action to challenge your sense of helplessness. Volunteer, renovate your home, or take care of the environment. All this will help make a difference.
Maintain an active lifestyle to increase endorphins.

Relaxation techniques

Reducing stressful situations should be a priority.
Stress is somewhat normal. He can really help you during a natural disaster. But excessive prolonged stress will inhibit recovery.

Use the following relaxation techniques:

Muscle Relaxation Exercises
Breathing exercises
Meditation
Swimming, stretching, yoga
Listening to soothing music
Spending time in nature

Usually, feelings of anxiety, numbness, confusion, guilt and despair after an accident or traumatic event disappear in a relatively short time. However, if your traumatic stress response is severe and persists for a long time, and at the same time interferes with your normal life, then you may need the help of a psychotherapist. Better yet, see a trauma specialist.

We recommend starting with psychological treatment rather than using medication as the only way to deal with the problem.

N.V. Naumchik

 


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