Preparing emotionally for a disaster
Natural disasters are unpredictable and can put peoples’ safety at risk, destroy homes and businesses, and can cause a lot of disruption to normal daily life.
Preparing for disasters isn’t only about physical preparation, like as getting your house or property ready. It’s also important that you prepare yourself emotionally. You might think of this as becoming mentally fit and prepared.
Now is the time to emotionally prepare, so you’re better able to manage if there is an emergency near you.
Emotional preparedness
For those that live in communities at risk of bushfire, floods and storms, they can experience thoughts and feelings of worry and concern (referred to as ‘anxiety’). These thoughts and feelings might be stronger and more intense for those who have experienced disasters previously.
If stress and worry turn into heightened levels of anxiety with thoughts, emotions and physical sensations that are difficult to manage, you should visit your GP.
If at any time you are worried about your mental health or the mental health of a loved one, call Lifeline 13 11 14.
How do I become emotionally prepared?
Emotional preparedness involves giving attention to three main areas, all of which relate to becoming aware of, understanding, and knowing how to better manage the tendency to become stressed:
- Anticipate: that certain seasons like summer will be stressful and will cause your body and mind to react in a very specific way. Recognise your body’s stress response and consider how it may affect your ability to respond in the event of an emergency. For example, some people might find it difficult to think clearly and to make decisions.
- Identify: the thoughts, feelings and physical sensations that are likely to be triggered for you by a threatening, frightening situation like a fire.
- Manage: be aware of and learn strategies that help to manage the different aspects of the body’s stress response; as this is an important part of maintaining the ability to function effectively when faced with an emergency.
More information
For more information about emotional preparedness visit the Better Health Channel.
