Steps to Disaster Recovery
When to Get Help
While it is normal to feel sad, anxious, or worried after a disaster, some may still feel those heightened emotions a year or more after a disaster. If you or someone you know struggles to cope with strong feelings a few weeks/months, or experiences continued interference with normal functioning, get help by accessing one of the resources found on this page.
6 Steps to Agriculture Recovery
1. Get Connected
Build strong, positive relationships with loved ones and friends
Get involved in community, cultural, school, charitable or faith –based groups
2. Make Every Day Meaningful
Do something that gives you a sense of accomplishment and purpose every day
Set goals to help you look toward the future with meaning
3. Learn From Your Experience
Consider the skills and strategies that helped you through difficult times in the past
Have a positive yet realistic view of yourself and an accurate sense of your abilities
4. Remain Hopeful
Look at the big picture and believe in your ability to overcome hardships
Understand the role your thoughts play in how you feel
5. Take Care of Yourself
Participate in activities and hobbies you enjoy, adapting them into your daily routine
Practice a healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, and practicing stress management techniques
6. Be Proactive
Don’t ignore your problems, but decide what needs to be done and take action
Believe that any situation can improve if you work at it
Responses to a Disaster
Changes in Activity Level
Trouble Relaxing or Sleeping
Increased Use of Alcohol/Drugs
An Increase in Irritability
Poor Work Performance
Difficulty Maintaining Balance in Life
Loss of Interest in Usually Pleasurable Activities
Digestive Issues
Headaches/Pain
Fatigue/Loss of Energy
Easily Startled
Trembling
Rapid Heart Rate
Weakness
Sweating or Chills
Shock/Denial
Fear/Anxiety
Anger or Irritability
Sadness
Feelings of Hopelessness
Guilt
Numbness
Grief
Mood Changes
Forgetfulness
Difficulty Concentrating
Difficulty Making Decisions
Dreams/Nightmares of Event
Confusion or self-doubt
"Flashbacks" of Crisis Event
Resources
Meeting the Challenge of Rural Stress and Suicide Article
Helping Cope with Grief and Loss During Animal Disease Outbreaks Webinar
Georgia Disaster Mental Health Page
Farmers, Don't Let Stress Steal Your Joy Article
Rural Georgia: Growing Stronger
Rural Georgia Growing Stronger Business Card
Coping with Stress Business Card | Coping with Stress Bookmark
Zoo Coping with Stress Business Card
Instructions for printing mental health materials
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/resilience-training/in-depth/resilience/art-20046311
- https://www.innerdrive.co.uk/Education/images/Resources/Growth-Mindset-7-ways-to-improve-resilience-600px.jpg
- https://www.fema.gov/coping-disaster
- https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/coping-after-disaster-trauma
- https://students.umw.edu/counseling/links-to-umw-brochures-other-resources/coping-with-disaster-and-crisis/