How to Cope with Mental Health During Natural Disasters

Updated 10/2/2024.

When a natural disaster like a hurricane, earthquake, tsunami, or tornado happens, hundreds to thousands of people lose their homes. News organizations send hundreds of photos and videos that show the extent of the destruction. Reporters and citizens document every flooded street, toppled building or crowded shelter.

But there is another type of damage that is more difficult to see and quantify: the impact on mental health. Victims of natural disasters often experience trauma and grief that plagues them long after they have found a new home. The stress of fighting for survival can make people more vulnerable to developing mental health conditions, including depression and post traumatic stress disorder [PTSD].

Those who know people in areas affected by natural disasters experience distress as well. Because hurricanes and floods can damage communications systems, some have to wait days before they know if their loved ones are alive. In the meantime they cope with unbearable anxiety.

Even for people with no direct connection to the catastrophe, the constant news coverage can prevent them from going about their day normally. It can be challenging to focus on work when thousands of people need immediate support. Reports on natural disasters can also be triggering for people who survived previous tragedies.

To provide emotional support, we consulted our therapists who have experience treating victims of natural disasters. Here is some of their advice for coping with mental health, along with resources and guidance for anyone affected by this tragedy:

For Survivors of the Disaster

Talkspace therapist Rebecca Steimans recommended survivors attempt to contact a mental health professional within 24 to 72 hours of a traumatic experience. Debriefing allows victims to cope with some of the emotions related to trauma and grief, Steimans said. If you can’t contact one, talking to friends and family about your situation can help too. Take strength in your community.

Here are some resources that will help you quickly reach someone with training in crisis, trauma or grief counseling:

• Crisis Text Line (text 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to text with a trained crisis counselor)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine (1-800-950-6264 or [email protected])
• Lifeline Crisis Chat

If you feel overwhelmed, focus on your breathing for a bit, nothing else. As you calm down, try to clear your mind. Think about whether you are fulfilling basic needs: eating, drinking, sleeping, and having access to shelter. Don’t worry about anything more complicated until you have these necessities.

For People With Loved Ones Affected by the Disaster

To help your loved ones heal, listen to their stories. Ask how you can support them. They will most likely answer.

If there is room in your home, offer them a place to recuperate. Even if it’s cramped, they will be grateful for the hospitality.

For People Who Want to Help Victims

The easiest and most efficient way to support victims of natural disasters is to donate money to an organization that provides relief. That can include organizations like:

• American Red Cross
• The Salvation Army

If you want to help even more and have the flexibility to travel, consider volunteering or donating supplies. Before you send supplies, make sure to contact local organizations so you can provide what they need most and how they need it. You can learn more about volunteering via the below links:

• Become a Volunteer with the Red Cross
• Become a Volunteer with The Salvation Army

For People Feeling Affected By the Disaster

The news coverage of the recent tragedy might be causing you distress, especially if you have PTSD or an anxiety disorder. If you are a survivor of a similar disaster, the current situation might resurface traumatic memories and intense emotions. The following resources can help you cope:

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America
• Talkspace Online Therapy
• PTSD Support and Resources from NAMI

Recovering from a natural disaster can be a long process. To fully heal, we need to be mindful of mental health issues, including grief, stress and trauma.