Human beings can have reactions to a demanding and stressful event
such as natural disaster. It is difficult to take care of yourself in
the middle of crisis especially if your attention is focused on the
basic needs of safety, food, clothing and shelter. You can help yourself
cope with reactions though self-care. Self-care can enhance your
emotional stamina and help you begin to return your life to some
semblance of normalcy.
Below are examples of self-care
- Stay away from mood-altering substances.
- Get plenty of rest if you can.
- Eat well-balanced meals
- Practice stress reduction techniques:
- deep breathing
- meditation
- progressive relaxation
- Be aware of "survivor guilt"
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- Structure your time and develop a routine.
- Lower expectations of what you "should be doing."
- Have breaks from periods of isolation.
- Talk it out - even with a professional.
- Give yourself permission to do something that could feel
good to you.
- Give and get physical touch.
- Exercise - even a little bit - is beneficial physically and
psychologically.
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- Give yourself permission to feel bad
- Schedule it in your day.
- Let yourself cry.
- Give yourself permission to feel good.
- Make small decisions daily to get control of your life back.
- Put off major life decisions, if possible.
- Give yourself permission to focus on someone outside
yourself.
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- Remind yourself that your reactions are normal
- Engage in practices that are meaningful to you, such as:
- prayer
- services
- walk in woods
- sitting quietly
- reading inspirational material
- journal writing
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© 2007 CIGNA Behavioral Health
Self-Care Strategies | Helping Children Cope | How
Companies Can Help
Stress At Work | Stress
Reactions | Fear of Flying | PTSD
Resources for Providers
Survivor Guilt | Traumatic
Loss | Mourning | Stages
of Grief
