Coping With Post-Disaster Stress More Difficult As Holidays Draw Near
Release Date: December 9, 2003
Release Number: 1498-48
» More Information on California Wildfires
PASADENA, Calif. -- The approaching holidays may trigger additional difficulties for those who suffered losses resulting from the recent firestorms, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) advised today. Both agencies are encouraging people coping with post-disaster stress, especially young children, to contact the free counseling services in their respective counties.
“The emotional devastation in dealing with the Southern California wildfire disasters is every bit as real as the property destruction,” said California State Mental Health Director Stephen W. Mayberg, Ph.D. “It is important to identify and deal with the emotional stress and displacement due to loss of a family member, friends, homes and personal possessions.”
Mayberg further noted that disaster victims are likely to experience emotional responses ranging from anger, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleeplessness and nightmares, to depression, inability to concentrate, hyperactivity or increased alcohol or drug use. Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable.
The loss of a home or familiar surroundings where holidays were celebrated and the associated memories, and the disruption of daily routines and holiday preparations, are traumatic and can increase the stress and sadness some victims may be experiencing. Mental health experts suggest a number of ways of relieving emotional distress symptoms:
- Talk about feelings with family, friends and neighbors. Friends and family are good medicine, and sharing common experiences helps people overcome anxiety and feelings of helplessness.
- Take a break from cleanup or other disaster-related chores for some relaxing activity.
- Get back into daily routines as soon as you can.
- Maintain a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep and daily exercise.
- Reassure children that they are safe. Encourage them to talk about their fears; emphasize that they are not responsible for what happened; hold and hug them frequently.
Disaster victims should the contact the mental health services department in their county if problems persist, particularly during the holiday season. Information about counseling services and stress management help is available in the disaster-declared counties at the following numbers:
State and Federal disaster officials note that the road to recovery can be a long one. Victims are urged to begin the process early by applying for assistance through FEMA’s toll-free number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). TTY assistance is available for the hearing and speech-impaired at 1-800-462-7585. FEMA representatives are available 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Federal and State disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate victims for their entire loss. Federal and state programs may help pay for basic needs not covered by the victim’s insurance policy. Residents affected by a disaster should contact their insurance providers in addition to calling the FEMA registration number. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other help may come in the form of low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services coordinates overall state agency response to major disasters in support of local government. The office is responsible for ensuring California’s readiness to respond to and recover from natural, manmade and war-caused emergencies and for assisting local governments in their emergency preparedness, response, mitigation and recovery efforts.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 09-Dec-2003 12:08:23