Dr. Bob’s Tips for Dealing with “Post-Irma Stress”
Feelings you may be having during this stressful time:
Trouble sleeping. You might wake up in the night or have nightmares.
Eating changes. You may not be hungry. Or maybe you are eating everything in sight.
Get upset easily; lose your temper; cry a lot.
Can’t stop thinking about the hurricane.
Feel afraid and worried about what is going to happen to you and your family.
Feel you have no energy to do anything, even though there is so much to do.
Feel that you have little control over your life.
Feel hopeless about future.
How to take care of yourself:
Stay connected. Talk to people you trust. Share your feelings, fears and concerns. Keeping these strong feelings inside can make them grow and add to your stress.
If possible, find ways to get some exercise alone and with your child. This can be a great way to reduce stress.
Take a break in whatever way you can. Take a walk, read—do something that soothes and satisfies you.
Find ways to have fun with your child. Activities, like singing and reading books together, can relieve stress for both parent and child!
Establish a daily routine as best you can.
Ask for support! Consider talking to a trusted health professional or seeking other professional help if you have further questions or need more support.