Thread by @wxbecks

#Florence is finally moving away from the Carolinas (severe flooding still ongoing for several more days), and the long-term recovery process is beginning. It's important to keep in mind the psychological impacts of disasters on humans. (Thread)

Many people impacted by a disaster, especially those with direct experience, endure temporary distress after the event, which can take days or weeks to diminish.

Symptoms of temporary distress include trouble sleeping, becoming angry or upset more easily, problems at school or work, a sense of isolation, flashbacks or nightmares, and difficulty concentrating or listening.

The loss of things like homes, jobs, valued possessions, loved ones, etc., that can be associated with a storm, is a stressful and potentially traumatic experience for people.

Some victims of weather disasters can be left with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) long after the disaster. #ptsd #mentalhealth

As many as 40 percent of disaster victims can also experience other mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. #mentalhealth #depression #anxiety

Changes in social behavior are also possible, like increased aggression and domestic violence. This thread from @SamLMontano discusses the increase in domestic violence post-disaster. Valuable insight!

https://twitter.com/SamLMontano/status/979526297348071424

Disaster victims can be triggered by reminders of the event, like thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, or wind events. The disaster anniversary can also be a triggering reminder that causes emotional distress. @mattlanza has shared insight on how people in TX perceive rain after Harvey

Certain words can also be very triggering. "Life-threatening," "outbreak," or even references to specific events, like the Moore 2013 tornado, the Alabama tornado outbreak in 2011, or Sandy in 2012 can cause anxiety & distress for people who survived those events.

Major events can also bring out positive responses, with a sense of community causing people to join together and help those in need to recover and rebuild. There are always positive stores floating around after a disaster that help showcase the caring side of humans.

Post-disaster mental health tips: Stay informed, but avoid overexposure to news coverage. Keep an open dialogue with those around you (including children) about feelings and emotions.

Learn what resources may be available to those impacted by the disaster to aid in recovery efforts.

@distressline has been posting a lot of important information on this very topic, including resources and how to get help. Check out their timeline: twitter.com/distressline

If necessary, seek the advice of a professional to help with emotional recovery from a disaster.

Can't stress this enough. It's okay to be upset, hurt, angry, stressed, scared, etc. after a disaster. These are normal emotions & it can be extremely helpful to talk through them.

Here are a few more resources: From @samhsagov: Tips for Disaster Responders:
PREVENTING AND MANAGING STRESS store.samhsa.gov/shin/content/S…

Free services offered through @GiveAnHour: connectingvets.com/articles/give-…

I'm sure there many other resources available. Please link to them!