Helping Oneself in Times of Disaster

            Last Saturday, the most disastrous typhoon and flooding struck our brothers and sisters in northern Mindanao, affecting thousands of people.  For many people living in the capital, Manila, this is strikingly reminiscent of the flooding that the typhoon called “Ondoy” caused a couple of years back.  

            There are essentially two sets of psychological reactions that people experience when they are affected by such natural calamities.  One is the typical reaction that people experience to acutely stressful events.  I wrote about this in my 20 August 2010 entry on this blog.  The other is that of grief and bereavement due to the death of a loved one or the loss of something of value.  I wrote about grief reactions dated 26 March 2010.  Whereas stress reactions are quite normal reactions, grief is a process that needs to happen over time. 

            In dealing with acutely stressful situations such as typhoons and flooding, it is important to address the most basic needs first.  And so, we can go back to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (see post 28 May 2010) to understand that basic survival needs should be addressed.  Making sure that there is food, water, shelter and clothing are essential here.  Soon afterwards, if not concurrent with this, is the need to establish safety and security.  When one’s life is threatened, the reassurance that one is safe will quickly help the individual re-establish one’s feeling of control over one’s life.  Only after this is established shall emotional and social needs become more apparent. 

            For people who were severely affected by a destructive natural calamity, here are some tips that can be helpful: 

·         Get back to rebuilding your life as soon as possible

·         Establish a predictable and regular daily routine (e.g., sleeping and waking, meals, self-care habits, etc.)

·         Share your thoughts and feelings with friends and family; seek their support

·         Accept the help of others

·         Do regular physical exercise

·         Despite the disaster and difficulties, think of what you can be thankful for

·         Connect with your God and pray

·         Do relaxation exercises (e.g., belly breathing, imagery, meditation, etc.)

·         Distract yourself with life giving activities (e.g., tell jokes and laugh, sing and dance, play games, engage in hobbies, etc.) 

·         Help others and volunteer your services to the community