HOUSTON, TX – The abrupt loss of a home and possessions due to natural disasters can lead to feelings of hopelessness and profound emotional distress. Dr. Eric Storch, a professor and vice chair of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine, offers advice on coping with such tragedies and provides guidance on how communities can support those affected.
Dr. Storch emphasizes that homes hold significant sentimental and emotional value beyond their material worth. The loss of these connections and memories can have a serious emotional impact. He advises those affected to practice self-compassion and seek support from their communities. The sense of community can ease the emotional burden of recovery. He also encourages individuals to gradually establish new traditions and create new sentimental items as they navigate the recovery process, which may involve dealing with insurance or relocating.
Communities, especially those comprised of individuals who have experienced similar disasters, can provide a crucial support network for repairing both physical and emotional damage. This support system helps prevent isolation, which can significantly hinder recovery efforts. A close-knit network of friends and neighbors can also facilitate the sharing of information and resources, providing clarity on the necessary steps following a disaster.
“A sense of empathy fostered by a community that is struggling together and working together can be a powerful thing,” Storch said.
For those who wish to support disaster victims, Dr. Storch recommends first determining the specific needs of the affected individuals. Local residents can volunteer with disaster relief agencies. Those living further away can donate money or resources to vetted organizations with a proven track record in disaster recovery support. Generosity can also extend beyond monetary gifts, with actions such as offering temporary housing or providing meals.
Grief can manifest in various ways following a disaster. Signs that may indicate the need for professional mental healthcare include persistent sleep disturbances, physical complaints, and disrupted eating patterns. Children may exhibit behaviors such as reluctance to sleep alone, separation anxiety, nightmares, and increased clinginess. Seeking professional help is crucial when these symptoms become severe or prolonged.
“Having a grief-based reaction to losing so much that is important is completely normal,” Storch said. “Taking the time to engage in some form of self-care and with the communities around you can help close the chapter on this part of one’s life and gradually move onto the next.”
