Once people start to talk about personal responses to trauma, they begin to realize that their stress reactions are normal. Through continued communication, the long-term effects of trauma are lessened. Aggressive outreach strategies become key components as many survivors do not call and make appointments for help. Frequently, they do not even realize that their emotional struggles are disaster related. If relocated, they may not be as visible as those who remain in close proximity to the disaster site.
Disaster relief requires non-traditional paths in order to effectively reach many victims.
Typically, people's reactions during a disaster are quite similar. Many experience terror as the danger approaches and their fate remains uncertain. Yet, with some natural calamities such as tornadoes, there can be a mesmerizing affect. Many have reported becoming almost hypnotically fascinated by this awesome act of nature. As the ominous circumstances escalate, the experience can become so intense and detailed that people perceive time and motion distortions.