TAMPA, Fla. — As we prepare our homes for hurricane season, there are also ways to manage the fear and anxiety that can come with severe weather.
From evacuation plans, to concerns about being in a storm’s path, hurricane season can be stressful in several ways.
“The things that are most anxiety-provoking for people are unpredictability and not having control over your situation. We don’t have control over the weather, we don’t have control over when hurricanes may or may not hit but what we can control is what we know,” said USF Professor of Psychology, Judith Bryant, Ph.D.
She encourages families to know their plan and stay informed. She has some tips for addressing the topic with children.
“Telling children what’s going on, using age-appropriate language, getting everyone involved in those preparations. I think that empowers everybody in the family and it enables them to maybe channel some of that anxiety into action, which can be very helpful,” said Professor Bryant.
“Parents know their children. They can take into account how sensitive they are to change, to transitions and so on, and modify what they say and how they say it accordingly. And answering children’s questions, if children have questions.”
Other tips from Professor Bryant and the American Psychological Association to help emotionally prepare include:
- Discuss evacuation plans with family
- Maintain a routine
- Get the facts (balance the amount of information)
- Connect with your children
- Maintain a hopeful outlook
There is a Disaster Distress Helpline. The national hotline is available year-round, and you can call or text: 1-800-985-5990.