Flooding: Before & After
After a Flood — Coping with stress and suffering
If you and your family members experience stress after the flood, you are not alone. Many people experience mental pain and stress after a disaster. Research indicates that about a third of those who experience severe flooding continue to suffer for four to five years afterwards. The most striking evidence of disturbance is in sleeping — either getting to sleep or staying asleep.
Stress is brought on by fatigue, financial worry, changes in the routine and feeling helpless as you wait - wait for the water to recede; wait for the insurance adjuster; wait in line for assistance; wait for repairmen and contractors; wait for your house and furnishings to dry and wait for your insurance check if you have made a claim. Chances are, the larger the disaster in your community, the longer the delay.
There is a natural desire to make things normal immediately, which is impossible. It will take time - time to clean up; time to make the necessary contacts; and time for your house and furnishings to dry thoroughly. In the meantime, the following suggestions may help you cope with the inevitable stress after the flood:
- Reach out to family members, neighbors and friends. One striking thing in a disaster is a strong desire to unite with others who experience the same or similar loss.
- Talk about your troubles. Sometimes a good talk can help you relieve stress. But, know when to stop. Dwelling on your difficulties and complaining about your situation may make those around you miserable.
- Anger, hurt and shock are normal reactions during disasters. Don't blame yourself or others. Deal with your feelings in positive ways. Try to maintain a sense of humor.
- Accept offers of help and repair if they come your way. Some people have difficulty accepting help without feeling guilty. Disasters can happen. Explain your situation to your creditors, employer, and banker and seek reasonable adjustments. People often feel so trapped and pressured that they may not realize they have choices.
- Don't try to do everything at once. It is easy to become confused and find yourself starting one thing and then another. Make a list of the jobs to be done. Concentrate on one job at a time, if possible.
- Build family strength and support by letting your family know you care and need them. Be sensitive to the needs of young children. Inform teachers and child care workers of your situation so they too can be sensitive to your child's circumstances. Families can and often do become stronger after a crisis if they concentrate on each other and not on their physical surroundings.