Follow-up to a Storm

Being originally from the northeast, a lot of my attention has been on the goings-on back that way during and following Hurricane Sandy.  It's been a bit of a distraction, really, and the continuation of my home lighting discussion is thus delayed.  But with Sandy and storm clean-up on my mind, what can I write about?  The media (both official and social media channels) have pretty well inundated us with information about the goings on up there, and photos (both real and less genuine) from the scene.    

I am glad that it appears the majority of people I know seem to be taking it in stride - some don't have reliable power, but most seem to have fared well (and luckily) with minimal impact so far.  Excepting, of course, the disruptions for all - limited ability to travel, closed schools and workplaces, falling trees and power lines, and the like.  I'm pleased to see so many people offering to help others who may be having greater hardships.  I'm reminded of the community in that region that's there but less apparent in day-to-day comings and goings.  There's a lot of waiting, and perhaps frustration from not being in control.  And, there are people in real need, without electricity or heat or running water, who are worried about what will happen next.

I would like to spend some time to talking about traumatic stress.  There's a weight that some feel, whether directly impacted and present, or watching from afar, whenever a disaster such as this strikes.  It's a feeling of loss, shock, or amazement.  Perhaps it's empathy for others who have lost so much or "survivor's guilt".  And these tend to be things that people don't talk about as much.  Whether it's because they want to appear strong, don't want to acknowledge,, don't want to make it real, don't feel that they're entitled to feel it... there can be a tendency to deny such feelings or keep them internal.

As the American Psychological Association notes, it is normal to feel shock or denial following a disaster or traumatic event.  The stress of such events can manifest itself in physical symptoms, like headaches, nausea, and chest pain, as well.  Dr. Edward T. Creagan notes common symptoms of stress after a disaster include confusion, disordered thinking, unusual eating and sleeping patterns, fatigue, and anger and frustration.  Time does help heal these "pains", but how long that takes varies for everyone.  So, here are the recommendations from the APA for dealing with traumatic stress.  (These tips aren't unique to the northeast and Sandy, of course.  Please consider these if ever you find yourself trying to heal from a disaster or similar trauma.) 

"Give yourself time to adjust. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state.

Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. But keep in mind that your typical support system may be weakened if those who are close to you also have experienced or witnessed the trauma.

 Communicate your experience. In whatever ways feel comfortable to you — such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a diary.

 Find out about local support groups that often are available. Such as for those who have suffered from natural disasters or other traumatic events. These can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems.

Try to find groups led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals. Group discussion can help people realize that other individuals in the same circumstances often have similar reactions and emotions.

Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs.

Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities.

Avoid major life decisions such as switching careers or jobs if possible. These activities tend to be highly stressful."

Also, take a break from the news.  Check in periodically to stay updated, but allow yourself to think about other things.  Read a book, play a game, talk with friends.

If you have a child who seems to be having a hard time processing and adjusting to life after the disaster, consider these tips from the National Association of School Psychologists.

If you're feeling distressed from afar, know that you're not alone in that, either.  Here are some tips from the APA just for that situation.

Remember that it's not a sign of weakness or some personal deficiency to feel deeply affected by such destruction and disruption to routine.  It's okay, and you're not alone.  If post-traumatic stress starts to interfere with your daily life, reach out to a mental health professional.  You don't need to handle everything on your own.

And, if you'd like to help with Sandy relief in particular, Yahoo has put together a list of organizations that are mobilizing relief efforts.

So, my thoughts and prayers are with those who've been adversely affected by the storm.  I'm thankful for the relatively low human cost, and hopeful for quick restoration.  My wish is for a speedy return to normalcy.