Some storms leave emotional damage: How to cope after a traumatic weather disaster

While some level of anxiety and depression can be expected after natural disasters, it’s important to catch signs early, according to Ron Acierno, PhD. (Photo by Lisa Raynor-Keck)

Hurricane Beryl left a historical path of destruction in its wake, killing 64 people, leaving nearly 3 million without power, and causing billions of dollars in infrastructure damage. The visible aftermath of a hurricane or a traumatic weather event is obvious, but what about the effects that people can’t see?

While some level of anxiety and depression can be expected after natural disasters, it’s important to catch signs early, before they can potentially evolve into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to Ron Acierno, PhD, professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston and executive director of the UTHealth Houston Trauma and Resilience Center.

“It’s normal to feel depressed or anxious after an event, but for many, that will go away over time,” Acierno said. “If these emotional symptoms don’t go away, and if they begin to get in the way of your roles in life, that’s when you should seek help.”

Warning signs of a more serious issue that might require behavioral therapy include losing interest or withdrawing from activities you previously enjoyed, feeling exhausted or overwhelmed all the time, avoiding people or places, and experiencing symptoms like unexplained pain or fatigue that do not have a physical cause.

“When you are no longer meeting your own expectations as a parent, spouse, employee, or friend, that’s when you know that you should seek professional help,” said Acierno, who holds the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Chair in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Research shows that genuine social connections with neighbors, friends, or family are one of the strongest predictors of resilience after traumatic events. Simple everyday interactions like chatting with a friend, helping your older neighbor with chores or yard work, or attending community gatherings are what build a strong foundation for relationships that sustain people when times get tough, Acierno said.

Even with therapy, healing requires action. Acierno emphasized that forming and maintaining real-life relationships is essential.

“Counseling in a vacuum is not effective,” Acierno said. “People have to actually put what they are learning into action and start reaching out again and forming those relationships.”For help, and to learn more about PTSD treatment options, visit UTHealth Houston Trauma and Resilience Center.