Navigating Mental Health After Disasters: Recommendations for All
Disasters can be traumatic and have long-term consequences on people's mental health. Whether the disaster is natural, such as an earthquake, or man-made, the aftermath can be overwhelming for survivors. At the same time, individuals on the front lines of saving lives, such as medical professionals and first responders, might be affected by the trauma they witness. I'd would like to share a handful of suggestions for dealing with mental health issues during these challenging circumstances.
For general public:
Limit exposure: While it is vital to be aware, overexposure to disaster-related news can be overwhelming and contribute to feelings of anxiety and tension. Try to restrict your time spent reading or viewing news updates.
Look for credible sources: When looking for information on a disaster, it is critical to rely on credible sources, such as government agencies or well-known news organizations, to ensure that you are getting correct information.
Take breaks from the news: If disaster-related news is overwhelming you, take a break from it for a while. Other things that you enjoy and that make you feel peaceful and comfortable should be pursued.
Stay in touch with loved ones: Discussing your feelings and experiences with family and friends can help you comprehend and cope with the effect of disaster-related news. Staying in touch with loved ones can bring comfort and support.
Practice self-care: Self-care is essential for dealing with the effects of disaster-related news. This can involve eating healthily, getting adequate sleep, exercising, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing.
For those affected by a disaster:
Acknowledge your emotions: It is typical to experience a range of emotions following a calamity, including shock, anger, fear, and sadness. Instead of repressing your feelings, let yourself to feel and process them.
Communicate with others: Talking with family, friends, or a support group can help you cope with the aftermath of a tragedy. Sharing your stories and hearing from others who have faced similar challenges can bring a sense of comfort and community.
Seek professional help: If your anxiety, sadness, or trauma are interfering with your everyday life, it may be beneficial to seek professional assistance from a therapist or counselor.
Practice self-care: In the aftermath of a disaster, it is critical to take care of your physical and emotional health. This can involve eating healthily, getting adequate sleep, exercising, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing.
For those helping to save lives:
Take care of yourself: Helping others can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so it is critical to prioritize your own self-care. Make sure to eat well, get enough sleep, and take breaks as needed.
Seek help: It might be beneficial to speak with colleagues, friends, or a therapist about your experiences and emotions. This can assist you in processing and coping with the tragedy that you have witnessed.
Use stress-management techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and physical movement can all assist manage the stress and emotions that come with disaster response job.
Think about debriefing: Following a disaster response, it might be beneficial to engage in a debriefing session with your team to share your experiences and thoughts. This can be an opportunity to process your experiences and obtain support from your peers.
Finally, controlling one's mental health after a disaster is critical for everyone. It is essential to acknowledge and process your feelings, to seek help, and to practice self-care and stress-management skills. If you're having trouble, don't be hesitant to seek assistance from a mental health expert.