Managing a Flood Aftermath
People get different emotions during and following a tragedy or traumatic incident like a devastating flood. These individuals could include those who survived the flood, emergency responders, cleanup personnel, kin, and loved ones who reside beyond the affected area. There isn’t any proper or inappropriate way for these people to feel, but it’s crucial for them to develop good coping mechanisms.
Recognize that Things will Change
Understanding that disasters can interrupt people’s lives for some time is vital. Residents in the impacted areas will have their houses, businesses, schools, and places of worship destroyed.
Occasionally, they lose loved ones or sustain bodily and mental harm that could last a lifetime.
Additionally, some individuals can suffer a temporary or permanent loss of jobs. Children who attend a new or temporary school may become separated from their peers or have their after-school activities interrupted.
Sleeping well Enough
After a disaster, some people have trouble sleeping or waking up frequently. If you have difficulties falling asleep, only go to bed when you are ready to do so. Still, refrain from using your phone or laptop while lying in bed, and don’t consume any coffee or alcohol for at least an hour before bed.
If you wake up and find it difficult to go back to sleep, you can try writing what’s on your mind in a notebook or on a piece of paper.
Limiting Watching the News is Helpful
People naturally lose their sense of security and safety when their homes are damaged. They develop unease, agitation, and fear. Nowadays, there is easy access to news via television, radio, and the internet. The repeated airing of news reports on a catastrophe or traumatic incident can exacerbate stress and anxiety.
Spending less time watching or listening to the news and doing more calming things will aid your recovery and forward motion. Holding talks in the impacted communities will be helpful. These gatherings give people who have been impacted a chance to interact, express their feelings, and aid in the mutual management of the trauma.