We are all faced with times where a storm is predicted for the area where we live. It may be a blizzard, tornado, hurricane, or tropical storm. When this happens, many times we feel fear and anxiety. This causes strong emotions that we need to address.
The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Living in Southwest Florida, I have lived through Hurricane Irma in September, 2017. This Category 3 hurricane was the first time in my life I was faced with such power from Mother Nature. The fear that we were going to lose our home and cars caused a lot of anxiety and fear before and after the hurricane. Then after the storm passes, we were left with the total devastation that was left behind.
There is another storm coming north to our area at the beginning of next week. Tropical Storm Eta is causing devastation in Central America and is plotted to come our way next. Adding this stress to what we are already feeling with the election, Covid-19, and quarantine, almost seems surreal.
The northern Gulf of Mexico states have had to deal with numerous hurricanes and storms this year. The temptation to scream, “WHAT NEXT?” is real but not going to be helpful in any way. So many people are feeling this fear and frustration. 2020 has been difficult in so many ways for so many people.
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”
Benjamin Franklin
What can be affected in our lives because we are dealing with these storms?
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in eating patterns
- Mental health concerns
- Physical health concerns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, or other substance abuse
What can we do to help relieve the fear and anxiety that comes with dealing with either storms from the weather or the storm of Covid-19 sweeping across our community?
- Be prepared – have enough food and supplies to get through the days when you need to stay home
- Batten down the hatches – prepare your home for the storm – cleaning supplies for Covid-19
- Have enough of your medications on hand to last through the emergency
- Take care of your mental health – use calming techniques and mindfulness to keep in touch with your emotions
“hope for the best, prepare for the worst”
Chris Bradford
Many times it is not what you do, but the fact that you are taking your destiny into your own hands that will help you get over the storm successfully. By taking action, any action, to help yourself, you will feel empowered and in control. This will help you get through.
Organizing, Growing, and Finding Peace Together 