Coping With a Disaster

People can experience a wide variety of emotions during and after a disaster. These emotions can include shock, anger, anxiety, sadness, and fear. As a community member, you can help yourself and others cope with these difficult emotions.

Here are some helpful tips:

Take care of your emotional health. Connect with family, friends, and others in your community to help you cope with the disaster.
Take care of your body. Try to eat healthy well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
Stay informed. Watch, listen to, or read the news for updates from officials. Being informed can help you manage your stress.
Seek help when needed. If distress affects your daily activities for several days or weeks, talk to a clergy member, counselor, or doctor, or contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline at 1-800-985-5990.

During a disaster, public health professionals and community leaders should be especially committed to listening to community members, expressing empathy for those affected, and providing timely and accurate updates. Your messages should draw upon cultural and community values that bring people together during the stages of a disaster.

For more resources and information about coping, click the button below.

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Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event

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During and after a disaster, it is natural to experience different and strong emotions. Coping with these feelings and getting help when you need it will help you, your family, and your community recover from a disaster. Connect with family, friends, and others in your community. Take care of yourself and each other, and know when and how to seek help.

People with preexisting mental health conditions should continue with their treatment plans during an emergency and monitor for any new symptoms. Additional information can be found at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration