Maintain a Healthy State of Mind: Adults (Part 2)
If a catastrophic event occurs, how can I help myself and others?
Immediately during or after a disaster, it is important to protect yourself from harm and additional exposure to the trauma. If directly involved, move away from continuing danger and destruction. Limit your exposure to media coverage of the event. In addition, you can
- Get your supplies kit and use your plan
- Take care of your immediate and ongoing physical needs
- Get exercise, rest, drink plenty of water, and eat healthy meals whenever you can
- Return to your daily routines whenever and wherever possible
- Recognize people's strengths, including your own, as well as their suffering
- Share your experiences when you are ready to do so
- Spend time with other people
- Remind yourself of your strengths
- Reflect on how you have dealt with problems in the past
- Ask for help when you need it
- Remind yourself that in time, distressing feelings will fade
- Find opportunities to unwind
- Allow others to spend time by themselves—Spend time by yourself if that helps.
- Mark the event in a symbolic way, such as a service or memorial, alone or with other people
How will I know if I need help?
Experiencing a disaster can leave people feeling like life will never be the same. You may try lots of ways to feel better, yet still be unable to return to feeling comfortable. If things aren't going well after several weeks, you may want to seek professional help. Talk to a professional at any point in time if you feel that you are having difficulty with your recovery. You will know that you are on your way to recovery when
- Your suffering has lessened
- You are able to concentrate on work or family and do things you used to enjoy
- You are able to resume caring for your family and complete daily tasks
- You are engaging in reasonable and appropriate use of
- Alcohol or cigarettes
- Recreational drugs
- Prescribed medicines
- Cars and other vehicles
- Your appetite and sleep patterns are not of concern
- You are able to manage your anger and avoid fights
- You are staying well instead of getting sick
How do I get the help I need?
Asking for support may sometimes feel uncomfortable; however, seeking the assistance you need can help you cope better. Sources of assistance could include
- A health care provider
- A religious leader
- A mental health professional
- Your employer's Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), if there is one
- Your city health center
- The local mental health clinic
- Local hotlines
- Mental health specialty and advocacy groups
- Mental health associations
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Updated 2014, February 10). Maintain a healthy state of mind: Adults. Retrieved May 31, 2015, from http://emergency.cdc.gov