Managing Traumatic Stress: Tips for Recovering From Natural Disasters

When a natural disaster affects a community, the resulting trauma can influence even on those not directly affected by the disaster.

Disasters of this type can be sudden and overwhelming. A disaster like a tsunami, hurricane or fire can have an impact on those who have lost loved ones and even those who feel more vulnerable as a result of learning about the disaster.

It is common for people who have experienced traumatic situations to have very strong emotional reactions. Understanding normal responses to these abnormal events can help you in coping effectively with your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and help you to recover.

What happens to people after a disaster or other traumatic event?
Shock and denial are typical responses to natural disasters, especially shortly after the event. Both shock and denial are normal protective reactions.
Some people respond immediately, while others have delayed reactions - sometimes months or even years later. Some have adverse effects for a long period of time, while others recover rather quickly.
And reactions can change over time. Some who have suffered from trauma are energized initially by the event to help them with the challenge of coping, only to later become discouraged or depressed.
How should I help myself and my family?
There are a number of steps you can take to help restore emotional well being and a sense of control following a natural disaster, including the following:

- Give yourself time to heal. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state.
- Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation.
- Communicate your experience in whatever ways feel comfortable to you - such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a diary.
- Find out about local support groups that often are available such as for those who have suffered from natural disasters.
- Try to find groups led by trained and experienced professionals such as psychologists. Group discussion can help people realize that other individuals in the same circumstances often have similar reactions and emotions.
- Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs.
- Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities.
- Avoid major life decisions such as switching careers or jobs if possible because these activities tend to be highly stressful.

 

Task 3. Look through the text and find the English equivalents for the following Russian words/phrases:

 

Ø подвергаться воздействию катастрофы,

Ø успешно справляться с чувствами, мыслями, поведением,

Ø восстанавливать эмоциональное равновесие,

Ø рассказать о своем жизненном опыте,

Ø при тех же обстоятельствах,

Ø сбалансированно питаться,

Ø продолжающиеся трудности со сном

Ø подобная деятельность может вызвать стресс

 

Task 4. Match the sentences conveying the same information.

 

Give yourself time to heal. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state.	Accept help from community programs and resource.
Find out about local support groups that often are available such as for those who have suffered from natural disasters.	Talk with someone about your feelings- anger, sorrow, and other emotions-- even though it may be difficult.
Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities.	Profound sadness, grief, and anger are normal reactions to an abnormal event.
Communicate your experience in whatever ways feel comfortable to you - such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a diary.	Use existing supports groups of family, friends, and church.
Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation.	Maintain a normal household and daily routine, limiting demanding responsibilities of yourself and your family.

 

 

Task 5. Your clients/friends/relatives have been the witnesses of a natural disaster. Give them advice how to recover after the catastrophe.

You should remember…..

You should keep in mind …..

You should take into account that…..

You must not forget …..