Steps to recovery

SURVIVING a hurricane can be a traumatic experience, leaving many to grapple with the aftermath both physically and mentally. The impact of a hurricane on mental health can be profound, but there are effective ways to manage and overcome these challenges.Acknowledge your feelingsIt is natural to experience a range of emotions after a hurricane – from relief and gratitude to anxiety and sadness. Acknowledging these feelings rather than suppressing them is the first step toward recovery. Allow yourself to grieve for any losses and recognise that it is normal to feel overwhelmed.Seek supportReaching out to family, friends, and community members can provide emotional support and a sense of solidarity. Talking about your experiences and feelings with others who understand can be incredibly therapeutic. Support groups, both in-person and online, can offer a safe space to share and heal together.Professional helpIf feelings of distress persist such as hopelessness, guilt, bursts of anger, crying spells, or difficulty with eating and sleeping, seeking professional help may be beneficial. Therapists trained in trauma can provide coping strategies and therapeutic interventions. There are helplines for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, such as U-Matter counselling services. This messaging platform is a partnership between the Ministry of Health and Wellness, U-Report from the United Nations Children’s Fund, and the Caribbean Child Development Centre for persons aged 16-24 years. U-Matter therapists can be contacted on WhatsApp at 876-838-4897. The Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline can also be reached at 888-639-5433. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these resources.Establish a routineCreating a daily routine can bring a sense of normalcy and control back into your life. Simple activities such as regular meals, exercise, and sufficient sleep can stabilise your mental and physical health. Routines can help reduce feelings of chaos and unpredictability that often follow a disaster.Focus on self-careTaking care of your physical health can significantly impact your mental well-being. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you relax, whether it’s reading, listening to music, or taking a walk. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can also reduce stress and anxiety.Limit media exposureWhile staying informed is important, constant exposure to news about the hurricane and its aftermath can increase anxiety. Set limits on how much time you spend watching and listening to news reports or scrolling through social media. Choose reliable sources and take breaks from media consumption to protect your mental health.Engage in community recoveryParticipating in community recovery efforts can provide a sense of purpose and connection. Helping others rebuild their lives not only contributes to the community’s overall recovery but also fosters a sense of empowerment and resilience within yourself. Volunteering can be a meaningful way to channel your energy positively.Plan for the futureHaving a plan in place for future emergencies can reduce anxiety about the unknown. Preparing an emergency kit, developing a family communication plan, and knowing evacuation routes can give you a sense of preparedness and control.Monitor children and vulnerable individualsChildren and vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, may have difficulty expressing their feelings and coping with stress. Keep an eye on their behaviour and provide extra support and reassurance. Encourage open conversations about their fears and feelings and seek professional help if needed.Stay hopefulRecovery is a gradual process, and it’s important to stay hopeful and patient with yourself and others. Celebrate small victories and progress and remind yourself that healing takes time. Focus on the positives and the support around you as you navigate through this challenging period.ConclusionManaging mental health after a hurricane is vital for overall recovery. By acknowledging your feelings, seeking support, establishing routines, and engaging in self-care, you can navigate the emotional aftermath and emerge stronger. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and taking care of your mental health is a crucial part of the healing journey.Robiann Broomfield is currently completing her PhD in clinical psychology with a specialisation in neuropsychology. In addition, she is also completing her clinical internship at Baylor College of Medicine/TIRR Memorial Hermann Hospital in rehabilitation psychology and neuropsychology. Starting in September she will begin a fellowship at Harvard Medical School in neuropsychology.