It's Mind Right Monday.... Be Emotionally Ready!
Hurricane season began June 1st. Living near coastal regions is a lifetime of keeping your eye on weather activity from June - November.
Dr. Lisa Weber-Curry has 9 tips that will help us to be "Emotionally Ready" for the next weather emergency.
1. Acknowledge past mistakes/missteps before, during, and after the disaster:
- Forgive yourself for those mistakes/missteps and commit to extending grace and help to yourself, your family, and others.
2. Accept that it is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry before, during and after a disaster (be aware of your feelings and accept them):
- There is no perfect or right way to react or recover from disasters.
- Each person may react differently, and your feelings may change over time.
- Make your and your families emotional and mental well-being a top priority (pay close attention to children, adolescents, and adults with special needs).
3. Recognize and accept the things that are within your control, write them down, and get to work on those things:
- Relinquish what you cannot control to God.
- Helpung others will increase your sense of control and increase positive emotions.
4. Remember - Disasters are a process, so expect updates:
- As new information comes in about the disaster, choose to view it as updates rather than changes. Doing so reduces the negative effects.
- Choose a trusted source to receive disaster related information. This will help put your mind at ease
5. Plan ahead:
- Consider the physical, mental, emotional, and spirtual needs of you and your family.
- Utlize your city/state emergency planning website to ensure you have emergency gear/supplies packed and ready.
- Establish a means of contact between family and friends. Doing so will put your mind and emotions at ease.
6. Take care of your body:
- Eat healthy-well balanced meals, get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly and avoid alcohol, drugs, and to bacco to help ensure you can physically handle challengesof a disaster. Being physical healthy will improve your mental and emotional well-being.
7. Take breaks:
- Avoid too much exposure to news.
- Prioritize time to unwind, take deep breaths, and continue with the usual activities that bring you joy. This will leave very little room for worry, stress and anxiety.
8. Connect with others:
- Share your concerns and feelings with a trusted friend or family member.
- Build a strong support system before, during, and after a disaster.
9. Seek help when needed:
If you continue to experience negative symptoms for several days or weeks ahead of or after a disaster, please speak to a therapist, clergy member, physician, or call a crisis hotline (800-985-5990) or 988.
It's Mind Right Monday... Be Emotionally Prepared!