How to Cope After Natural Disasters

Each one of us, either directly or indirectly, is touched by the nightmare of natural disasters. Each year, the Philippines is confronted with a myriad of typhoons, floods and landslides. Even after the recent 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit both Cebu and Bohol, there are still aftershocks being recorded (and felt).  Truly these are devastating events, but you can plan for how to deal with disasters and their aftermath. Because of these occurrences, signs of disaster-induced stress is one of the factors to be addressed. According to mayoclinic.com, a sense of confusion, paranoia, disordered thinking, disruption of eating and/or sleeping patterns, physical ailments such as  headaches, stomach ache and fatigue as well as feelings of anger or frustration are some common reactions experienced.

These experiences are normal. So what are some suggestions from experts on dealing with these unpredictable events?

1. Talk with someone you trust about your feelings — anger, sorrow and other emotions — even though it may be difficult. Let these feelings be expressed. It’s unhealthy if you keep these thoughts to yourself.
2. Look out for your physical and emotional needs. Be sure to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet and get some exercise.
3. Stop blaming yourself. Acknowledge that you have no control over the path of a storm, or the direction of a flood.
4. Go on a “media diet”. The Department of Psychology from the University of San Carlos shared wise words from a grief counselor, Cathy Sanchez Babao: “… Just a short note to help us cope. [I] Suggest we go on a media diet. Being inundated with images and reports will not be healthy for those of us who were spared and will sap us of the much needed energy we need to plan and help out. Know your limits. For me personally, it’s two hours of CNN in the morning, and an hour of news at night. Also limit viewing of tragic images on Facebook, especially the very gruesome ones showing dead bodies. Let us also refrain from posting images of the dead, please.”
5. Give. A box full of canned goods or at least two hours of your time to give a hand with relief operations– any form of help no matter how big or small can be very therapeutic. Nothing beats the joy of being able to give.
6. Plan ahead. Be proactive and prepare for these events by having a disaster kit and non-perishable food stuff, drinking water and medications on hand. Make listening and reading the local news a habit, and check announcements made by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) every day.
7. Don’t forget to reflect and pray. No matter what religion you belong to, moments of silence are one of the vital foods for the soul.