Dealing with Stress after a Disaster North Dakota State University NDSU Extension Service Dealing with Stress after a Disaster A natural disaster leaves a trail of property destruction, and many times it leaves thousands of its victims with a damaged sense of balance. In addition to restoring buildings and replacing material possessions, victims may need to devote time to restoring their own emotional equilibrium during the recovery period. This can be especially important for children who do not have years of life experience to guide them. Focusing on the present can help people work through many of life's setbacks, both big and small.
Tips Be extra patient.
Determine what's really important, keeping in mind that your spouse's viewpoint on what should be considered top priority may be different from yours. Don't expect things to instantly restore themselves. Realize that disaster victims have suffered losses and it's natural for them to express disbelief, anger, sadness, anxiety and depression afterwards. Realize that the emotions of victims will roller-coaster and moods can change unexpectedly. Don't overlook the feelings of children as you deal with the situation.