We have been through something that has tested us physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically. Hurricane Irma ripped 200-year-old trees from the earth, broke solid concrete, and took everything we had and tossed it into the rubble heap. Now what?
Some people are pushing optimism on others, saying in effect, that if we don’t believe in hope and cheer-the-bleep-up then we are part of the problem. As if the coming economic woes will somehow be in part our fault, because we weren’t optimistic enough.
Mental health experts say there is no right or wrong way to react to traumatic events. Some will feel depressed; others will make to-do lists and get right to work, while someone else may drift off into escapism. The aftermath of Irma is difficult, but it’s only worse if someone is telling you what you should be thinking, feeling or doing. We are all doing the best we can.
Experts also say that ignoring your feelings will slow your eventual recovery. It may seem better in the moment to avoid experiencing your emotions, but they exist whether you're paying attention to them or not. Even intense feelings will pass if you simply allow yourself to feel what you feel; however, it may not be the healthiest thing to relive your ordeal over and over again. Get it out once or twice, and really experience your emotions, then try to move on.
Whether or not you were directly impacted by the traumatic event, it’s normal to feel anxious, scared, and uncertain about what the future may hold. Your nervous system has become overwhelmed by stress, triggering a wide range of intense emotions and physical reactions. These reactions to traumatic stress often come and go in waves. There may be times when you feel jumpy and anxious, and other times when you feel disconnected and numb.
Here are some normal emotional responses to traumatic events that we can all relate to these days: Shock, anger, disbelief, fear, sorrow, guilt, shame, relief and even helplessness. I’ve seen all these in my friends, family and colleagues in the past few weeks, and I’ve seen them in myself. Strangely enough, lots of guilt! Those with property with little or no damage, and those that have left the island seem to be suffering serious pangs of guilt, which is very interesting. Obviously, they did nothing wrong, but the urge to share the experience with the community is strong, even though the experience is unpleasant.
These are difficult times, but we have each other and we are strong. There is love for us and our island. We shall overcome.
Until next weekend,
~ Lisa (with thanks to www.helpguide.org)
