Storms are scary. They present a clear and present danger to all living creatures existing within their path. This threat can be an intrinsic trigger for fear, anxiety, and an often-overwhelming unease in human beings – no matter how many hurricane seasons you may have endured!
Dr Kasia Murach is a senior clinical psychologist at Solstice Bermuda, and she lists the primary factors contributing to stress during a storm as: fear of physical harm, fear of property damage, lack of control, disruption of routine and normalcy due to evacuations and power outages, concern for loved ones, social isolation, sleep disruption, and media and information overload.
A major trigger for anxiety is the unknown, and Dr Murach cites the unpredictability of hurricanes as something that most of us will respond to.
“Storms, especially severe ones, are unpredictable,” Dr Murach said. The inability to know exactly when and how a storm will impact can create a heightened sense of anxiety. People often feel powerless against natural forces, which can exacerbate feelings of helplessness and stress.”
Responses to this kind of stress – like panic and hypervigilance – can then exacerbate the problem.
“The imminent threat of a storm can trigger acute anxiety and panic attacks in some individuals. Constantly monitoring weather updates and staying alert for potential dangers can lead to mental exhaustion and heightened stress levels.”
Another contributing factor can be trauma from past experiences; which can manifest as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“Individuals who have previously experienced severe storms or natural disasters may have heightened stress responses due to trauma and memories of past events,” Dr Murach said. “Those with a history of trauma may have flashbacks or heightened anxiety during storms, even if they are not in immediate danger.”
The team at Solstice is well-equipped to help clients deal with these types of anxiety, and Dr Murach recommends strengthening social bonds through fellowship when the storm is raging outside.
“As with most traumatic events, talking it out helps. It helps if the time of the storm is the time when the family and/or friends come together. In Bermuda, we gather together, play games and eat sandwiches. No-one needs to be left alone.”
Long-term mental and emotional health risks are always a concern when a natural disaster is imminent. Wounds can be deep after a particularly violent storm has passed; Dr Murach broke down what this looks like.
“Following a disaster, people often feel shocked, disoriented, or unable to process distressing information,” she said. “Once these initial reactions diminish, individuals can experience a range of thoughts and behaviours.
“One common response is intense or unpredictable emotions. People may feel anxious, nervous, overwhelmed, or grief-stricken. Increased irritability or moodiness is also typical.
“Changes in thought and behaviour patterns are also prevalent. Individuals might have repeated and vivid memories of the event, which can occur without warning, and lead to physical reactions such as a rapid heartbeat, or sweating.
“Concentration and decision-making may become difficult, and sleep and eating patterns can be disrupted – some people may overeat and oversleep, while others may experience insomnia and loss of appetite.
“Sensitivity to environmental triggers is another common response. Sirens, loud noises, burning smells, or other environmental sensations can evoke memories of the disaster and heighten anxiety. These triggers may lead to fears of the stressful event recurring.
“Interpersonal relationships may also become strained. Increased conflict, such as more frequent disagreements with family members and co-workers, can occur. Individuals might become withdrawn, isolated, or disengaged from their usual social activities.
“Finally, stress-related physical symptoms are common. Headaches, nausea, and chest pain may occur and sometimes require medical attention. Pre-existing medical conditions may also be exacerbated by disaster-related stress.”
Of course, there are ways of overcoming storm-related trauma. Dr Murach provides a comprehensive silver lining for those who suffer from hurricane-related anxiety.
“Fortunately, research shows that most people are resilient and can recover from tragedy over time. While it is common to experience stress in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, most individuals are able to return to their previous level of functioning within a few months. It’s important to remember that resilience and recovery are typical, and prolonged distress is not the norm.
“There are several steps you can take to build emotional wellbeing and regain a sense of control following a disaster:
“First, give yourself time to adjust. Expect that this will be a challenging period in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced, and be patient with changes in your emotional state.
“Second, ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathise with your situation. Social support is a key component of disaster recovery. Family and friends can be invaluable resources, and connecting with others who have also survived the disaster can provide common ground and mutual support. Additionally, reaching out to those not involved in the disaster may offer greater support and objectivity.
“Third, communicate your experience. Express your feelings in whatever ways are comfortable for you, such as talking with family or close friends, keeping a diary, or engaging in creative activities like drawing or moulding clay.
“Fourth, find a local support group led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals. Support groups for survivors can help you realise that you are not alone in your reactions and emotions. These meetings can be particularly helpful for those with limited personal support systems.
“Fifth, engage in healthy behaviours to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, consider relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can serve as numbing diversions that delay active coping and moving forward from the disaster.
“Sixth, establish or reestablish routines. This can include eating meals at regular times, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, or following an exercise programme. Incorporate positive routines to give yourself something to look forward to during these distressing times, such as pursuing a hobby, walking through an attractive park or neighbourhood, or reading a good book.
“Finally, avoid making major life decisions. Switching careers or jobs and other important decisions can be highly stressful and even more challenging when you’re recovering from a disaster.”
