Dealing With Flood Stress

I realize that the flood happened in 2011, but when it rained hard recently I saw the fear and tension in a few friends and coworkers. It upsets me to see fear in some eyes when rain falls. No one should be that imprisoned by an event. The lasting effects of the flood are real and continuing.

Trauma from being in a natural disaster can last for years if untreated. Hearing rain hit your home's roof may be all that is needed to cause anxiety.

The stress of dealing with natural disaster "syndrome" as I will call it can lead to physical problems or make existing ones worse.There are ways you can treat this successfully.

The first thing is to "buck up" and make an appointment with your family physician. They know you best and can help determine where to go after you talk.

Next, understand what you are dealing with. The American Psychological Association has a great resource on their website

Talk with others that went through the flood (or floods) too. They will be able to understand on your level.

The stress of having been through the flood and fear of it happening again are normal reactions. You shouldn't have to go through the rest of your life tensing up at the sound of hard rain!

Being prepared may also help you relax a bit more. Visit FEMA's website for info on how to plan. And remember, someone will always have your back.