At a glance
After a natural disaster, it’s normal to feel different and strong emotions. Feeling emotional, nervous, or having trouble sleeping and eating can all be normal reactions to stress. Here are some healthy ways you can deal with stress.
Practice healthy ways to deal with stress
Take care of yourself.
- Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
- Exercise on a regular basis.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Give yourself a break if you feel stressed out.
Talk to others.
Share your problems and how you are feeling and coping with a parent, friend, counselor, doctor, or pastor.
Avoid drugs and alcohol.
These may seem to help, but they can create additional problems and increase the stress you are already feeling.
Take a break.
If news events are causing your stress, take a break from listening to or watching the news.
Recognize when you need more help.
- If problems continue or you are thinking about suicide, talk to a psychologist, social worker, or professional counselor.
- You can also call or text SAMHSA's Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990. People with deafness or hearing loss can use their preferred relay service to call 1-800-985-5990.
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