Coping with Disaster
Disasters occur near and far every day. The American Psychological Association published the following ideas for people who are not directly hit. This is by no means a complete list ... just some suggestions:
- Take a news break. Watching endless replays of footage from the disaster can make your stress even greater. Although you will want to keep informed especially if you have loved ones in Haiti taking a break from watching the news can lessen your distress.Control what you can.
- There are routines in your life that you can continue such as going to work or school and making meals. It is helpful to maintain these routines and schedules to give yourself a break from constantly thinking about the earthquake.
- Engage in healthy behaviors. Eat well-balanced meals, engage in regular exercise like going for a long walk, and get plenty of rest. Bolstering your physical well-being is good for your emotional health and can enhance your ability to cope
- Keep things in perspective. While an earthquake can bring tremendous hardship and loss, remember to focus on the things that are good in your life. Persevere and trust in your ability to get through the challenging days ahead.
- Find a productive way to help if you can. Many organizations are set up to provide various forms of aid to survivors. Contributing or volunteering is a positive action that can help you to make a difference.
- Strive for a positive outlook. Many people who have experienced tragedy find that they grow in some respect as a result of persevering through the hardship. Over time, people can discover personal strengths and develop a greater appreciation for life.
Below are some web sites with information
to aid you in helping children and adolescents deal with tragedy:
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Last Modified
March 18, 2011
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