Surviving Hurricane Season: Protecting Ourselves Amidst Natural Disaster

Earlier this fall, with little prior warning, Hurricanes Helene and Milton ripped through our community of Pinellas County, leaving devastation and heartbreak in their wake. Helene, a Category 4 storm, brought severe flooding and storm surge, damaging and destroying thousands of homes in our region. The cost of repairs in Tampa Bay alone has been estimated to reach hundreds of millions of dollars. Almost immediately following Helene, Hurricane Milton exacerbated the destruction, overwhelming local infrastructure, recovery efforts and overall morale. Federal aid has been sent to begin the process of debris removal, search-and-rescue operations, and rebuilding. What we spend less time thinking about, however, is the short and long-term psychological impact these events can trigger.

Hurricanes can cause significant psychological stress due to the intense fear, uncertainty, and disruption they bring. It’s not uncommon to experience acute stress reactions such as panic during these events, especially when forced to evacuate or facing life-threatening circumstances. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common development, particularly among those who’ve experienced severe property damage, loss of loved ones, or displacement. Ongoing recovery challenges, including the financial strain and the need for rebuilding homes and lives, can worsen or even cause anxiety and depression. The possibility of unpredictable future storms and the thought of repeating these experiences can also contribute to long-term emotional distress.

During these stressful times, practicing self-care is essential for maintaining emotional well-being. Begin by making sure your basic needs are met – getting enough rest, staying hydrated, eating regularly, etc. It can be very easy to overlook physical needs when anxiety is high, but a stable routine can help re-establish a sense of normalcy. If you’re evacuating, pack a small comfort item, such as a favorite book/journal/blanket, to encourage a calming space no matter where you are. Making time for short moments of mindfulness, such as breathing and grounding exercises, can also reduce immediate anxiety and help you stay in the present moment.

In addition to self-care, developing healthy coping skills will be essential for managing the emotional toll of a hurricane. Acknowledge that it is normal to feel stressed or overwhelmed during these events, but try to avoid isolating yourself. Stay connected to friends, family, or whoever may be part of your support network, whether in person or virtually. Sometimes, sharing your fears with others can alleviate some of the emotional burden you may be feeling. Try limiting your exposure to constant news coverage as this can heighten anxiety. Instead, focus on staying informed with necessary updates and use your time to engage in stress-relieving activities, such as creative hobbies, light physical activity, or meditation.

Lastly, remember: you are not alone. Connecting and maybe even being there for fellow community members going through a similar experience might help you feel more connected and supported through this difficult time.

Bianca Massi, LMHC, Therapist