By Jamie Martin
Storms and heavy rainfall continue to affect many communities, bringing disruption to homes, farms, and daily routines. The stress caused by unpredictable weather and property damage can be overwhelming, especially when tasks pile up without much relief.
Experts advise that caring for physical and emotional well-being during these times is just as important as repairing property. When people focus only on crisis management, they often forget their own needs. Long hours and fatigue may lead to burnout, making self-care essential.
“Individuals sometimes try to be invulnerable to fatigue, stress, frustration and depression,” says a wellness expert. “Often, the demand on their energies is so great that they think they can muddle through.”
To manage storm stress, consider these self-care strategies:
- Get enough sleep and rest.
- Eat healthy meals regularly.
- Follow a structured routine.
- Say no when needed without guilt.
- Take 10-minute breaks every few hours.
- Step away briefly to refresh your environment.
- Ask for help when a task is too much.
- Share responsibilities and delegate work.
- Recognize your energy limits and stop when needed.
- Communicate with people who understand your challenges.
- Stay optimistic and find moments for laughter.
Family and friends can also play a vital role. Encouragement from others, including mental health professionals and community members, helps reduce the load on affected individuals. Supporting one another builds resilience and ensures important tasks get done.
“To help critical tasks get done in a time of stress, the load must be shared,” the expert adds.
For more guidance on managing stress during disasters, visit NDSU’s disaster education website at ndsu.ag/disasterinfo.
Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university
Categories: National