Maintain a Healthy State of Mind: Seniors (Part 2)
If a disaster occurs, how can I best deal with it?
Talking about what happened and sharing your feelings with others you trust or who have lived through similar events can be helpful. It is important to take care of yourself physically. This includes eating properly, taking your regular medications, and getting a good night's rest. Get back into a normal routine as soon as you can. It helps if you can find meaning in what happened or how you handled things.
- Use the disaster plan you made.
- Find sources of information you can trust.
- Stay informed, and follow official directions to protect yourself and others.
- Stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors if possible.
- Spend time with family and loved ones.
- Even though you need to stay informed, avoid repeatedly watching disturbing events. Watching TV or hearing radio replays of tragic events can increase anxiety and fear.
- Remind yourself of your strengths and how well you have dealt with problems in the past.
- Remind yourself that in time you will feel better.
- Be patient with others and with yourself. Take time to relax. Find a quiet place where you can collect your thoughts and feelings.
- Keep up your exercise and good health habits, while getting plenty of rest.
- Ask for help when you need it.
How will I know if I need more help?
You may try all of these ways to feel better and still be unable to get back to your regular routines. You might need outside help if, after several weeks or so, you
- Still suffer greatly, longer than for other losses and events
- Cannot concentrate or do things you used to enjoy
- Are not able to resume normal roles with your family and friends
- Are
- Drinking or smoking too much
- Using an excessive amount of prescribed medicines
- Driving too fast or too slowly
- Fighting, hurting, or threatening others
- Still having eating or sleeping problems
- Getting physically sick
- Feel like hurting yourself or someone else
How do I get help?
Asking for support may sometimes feel uncomfortable; however, seeking the assistance you need can help you cope better. Sources for assistance could include a
- Family doctor
- Religious leader
- Licensed counselor or other trained mental health provider
- Health care provider
- Local health center or mental health clinic
- Mental health specialty or advocacy group
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Updated 2014, February 10). Maintain a healthy state of mind: Seniors. Retrieved May 31, 2015, from http://emergency.cdc.gov