Staying calm and mentally strong during a hurricane

Hurricanes require mentally preparation, mindfulness, and resilience. Here are some tips to help you stay calm and mentally strong during the event:

1. Stay Informed (But Limit Overexposure)

• Keep up-to-date with official weather updates, but avoid overloading yourself with constant news coverage, which can fuel anxiety.
• Use reliable sources like local emergency services or government weather agencies.

2. Prepare and Plan Ahead

• Have an emergency plan in place for evacuation or sheltering in place. Knowing what to do and having supplies ready will give you a sense of control.
• Create a checklist of what you need, such as food, water, first aid, important documents, and medications. Prepare a “go-bag” if evacuation becomes necessary.

3. Stay Connected

• Communicate with family and friends, even if just to check in. This can reduce feelings of isolation and provide reassurance.
• If you’re alone, consider reaching out to a neighbor or joining local online groups for support.

4. Maintain a Routine

• As much as possible, stick to a daily routine, even if it’s as simple as mealtimes and sleep schedules. Structure can help reduce feelings of chaos.

5. Practice Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

• Deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your nervous system during stressful moments.
• Take breaks from any immediate tasks to center yourself and avoid burnout.

6. Stay Occupied

• Distract yourself with books, puzzles, or movies (if you have power). Focusing on non-stressful activities can prevent overthinking.
• If the situation allows, engage in light physical activity to release tension.

7. Limit Catastrophic Thinking

• When fear builds up, it’s easy to imagine worst-case scenarios. Acknowledge your fears but balance them with practical steps you’re taking to stay safe.
• Use positive affirmations, such as reminding yourself, “I’ve prepared as best I can.”

8. Lean Into Community Support

• If possible, help others or allow others to assist you. Acts of kindness can distract you from your worries and strengthen bonds during difficult times.
• Access community resources, whether through shelters, local organizations, or mental health hotlines.

9. Be Mindful of Emotional Triggers

• Hurricanes can resurface trauma or stress, especially if you’ve lived through one before. Recognize triggers and allow yourself to process emotions without judgment.
• Journaling or speaking to a loved one about your feelings can help release anxiety.

10. Focus on the Present Moment

• Hurricanes are unpredictable, and worrying about what may happen next can heighten anxiety. Concentrating on what you can control in the present moment will help maintain mental clarity.

11. Access Mental Health Support if Needed

• If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to seek professional help through telehealth or crisis counseling services. Many hotlines and virtual support networks are available in times of natural disaster.

Taking care of your mental health during a hurricane is just as important as your physical safety. Remind yourself that the storm will pass, and you have the resilience to get through it.