Disaster Resources

Coping With a Disaster...

If you or someone you know and/or love has just experienced a traumatic event you will be very busy over the next several days caring for your immediate needs. Finding a new place to stay, cleaning up making repairs, and filling out claim forms will occupy a majority of your time. As the shock wears off you will start to put your life back together. Below is a list of things that will help you to take care of your “whole” self:

Tips for Coping and Self-Care...

Reach out and make contact with others.
Talk with friends and loved ones.
Recognize and accept your feelings as "normal" responses to extreme circumstances.
Express your feelings appropriately; keep a journal to help in the process.
Structure your time.
Maintain your usual schedule as much as you can.
Get extra rest and set aside time to relax.
Eat regular balanced meals even if you don't feel hungry.
Exercise or participate in some regular physical activity.
Delay major decisions or changes in your life.
Avoid excessive use of alcohol or drugs.

Common Symptoms after a Crisis or Disaster...

Irritability/Anger
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Inability to sleep
Nightmares/Sadness
Headaches or nausea
Hyperactivity
Lack of concentration
Recurring thoughts of the event
Feeling numb, “in a fog”

Contact one of Trumbull County’s Crisis Team Counseling Agencies listed below if symptoms persist. Recognize that seeking professional help doesn’t mean you are weak, inadequate, or crazy.

Helping Others...

Listen with interest
Encourage people to talk about their experience
Spend time together
Reassure them that they are safe
Help with everyday tasks like cleaning, cooking or caring for their family
Allow some private time
Try to maintain a normal routine
Do not take normal responses of anger personally

Your Family Disaster Plan...

Disaster can strike quickly anywhere, anytime. If this happens, will you be ready?

Emergency Supplies

3-day supply of water and non-perishable food
One change of clothing and sturdy footwear per person
First aid kit including any of your family’s prescription medications
Battery-powered radio, flash-light, and extra batteries
Extra set of car keys, credit card, cash or traveler’s checks
Sanitation and hygiene supplies
Extra pair of eyeglasses
Blankets or sleeping bags
List of important information and phone numbers (doctor, etc)

Creating A Disaster Plan

Pick two places to meet in case you and your family are separated.
Have an out-of-state friend or relative as a family contact in case you are separated and local phone service is out.
Plan pet care in case you have to evacuate your home.