Natural disasters come unexpectedly and can deeply affect us or loved ones. If you have been watching the news or perhaps you have loved ones living in California, you know there have been devastating and horrific wildfires occurring. Our hearts go out to those who have lost their homes, businesses, and belongings.
Natural disasters, like this one, can feel shocking to our nervous systems, and are often traumatic for those who live through them. The purpose of this blog is to explore how to cope personally with natural disasters, whether you have been affected or you know someone who is coping with this tragedy. If you are experiencing the effects of this, just know that we see you and are here for you, friend.
1. Take Care Of Yourself
You or your loved ones are going through a lot right now, and it is so important to be kind to yourself at this time. I gently encourage you to explore what you need and find ways to practice self-care. This could mean taking time off from work, cancelling plans, or going to the event you originally planned to go to and giving yourself permission to show up authentically.
Another helpful way to practice caring for yourself is being mindful in the context of your body. You might feel physically and emotionally exhausted or stressed. Take time to give yourself a moment to ask yourself what you need. You may find it helpful to go on a walk, get extra sleep, or take a moment to be still.
2. Find Support and Connection
I invite you to share with loved ones that you are struggling with the news or experiencing an array of emotion, such as sadness, loneliness, sorrow or anger.. It is more than ok if you are also finding it difficult to name and express what you are feeling. Find support and connection with people who can understand and that can share in the pain.
You are not alone in this. Perhaps this is a time to join a support group or reach out to loved ones and connect with them over a meal or coffee. Despite this tragedy, I encourage you to reach out to your safe people, resting in the knowledge that we heal in community with others.
3. Allow Yourself Time To Grieve
Grief is messy and may be overwhelming to you during this time. Hold space for your grief. Allow your grief to be present without minimizing or fixing. The grief process is non-linear and it can come in waves.
Symptoms of grief can look like sleep disturbances, low appetite, depression, and restlessness. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Experiencing a natural disaster and living through the aftermath of it is inherently a grief-filled process. Be gentle with yourself as you are processing day to day.
4. Orient To What Matters Most To You
This can be a good time to allow yourself to check in and explore what matters most to you. This might look like hugging your loved ones extra tight or we tell someone that we haven’t talked to in a while that we’re thinking of them or that we love them.
A natural disaster can be a good reminder of orienting us to what matters most to us. We can all get caught up in materialistic things, and this is a time that we can slow down and invest in the things or the people around us that we love. It is a reminder of what is most important in our lives. Whether it’s our loved ones or the people who have shown up in our lives.
Friend, my hope is that these resources can help you cope with this incredibly difficult time. Take care of yourself and surround yourself with your loved ones.
AFFIRMATION OF THE DAY: “I am patient with myself as I navigate the grieving process”
Additional Resource
Making Meaning of Pain and Suffering with Beth Barcus
On Becoming Anchored Podcast episode, licensed therapists Laura Deneen and Lauren Jackson host a conversation with co-executive director of Porter’s Call, Beth Barcus. They explore how personal histories of pain and suffering can become powerful stories of strength and resilience.
You can listen to the episode here. Join us as we discuss the power of vulnerability, self care, and the importance of community and connection.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
Laura
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Company to assist in this mission. The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirming, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life. To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or visit our website today.
