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Taking Care of Yourself

Disasters and other traumatic stressful events may disrupt the normal flow of life. Relationship problems and difficulties with children are not uncommon, but we can keep our family strong and learn to cope as a team by taking a few simple actions:

Taking Care of Your Body

  • Get enough sleep. Eat regular, healthy meals and remain physically active.
  • Avoid drinking excessively or using drugs or tobacco to help you cope. These can cause additional problems in the future.

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health

  • Do things that help you recharge and feel in control of your life. Focus on your strengths and past accomplishments, and set realistic goals for the future.
  • Try to remain positive and be patient with yourself.
  • Make time to reflect, meditate or pray. Save some time for activities you enjoy.

Reaching Out

  • Do not be afraid to express your feelings or to talk about your experiences and emotions. You may find that others are experiencing similar feelings so you can support and comfort each other.
  • Do not hesitate to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed or discouraged.
  • Don't become isolated. Stay connected to friends and family.

Reducing Your Stress

  • Try to stick to your daily routine as much as possible. This will give your life structure.
  • Do things you find comforting such as reading, listening to music, exercising.
  • During a disaster keep yourself informed by obtaining information from reliable resources but do not become preoccupied with the news. Watching too much coverage about the event can be upsetting to you and those others around you, including your children. Do not listen to or act upon rumors.

Managing Your Workload

  • Maintain a healthy balance between work and rest.
  • Take frequent breaks and give your body and mind enough time to rest and recharge.
  • In trying to cope, do not let work take over your life.
  • Remember to make time for your family and friends, as well as your own hobbies and interests.

More Coping Resources