Violence Prevention in the Wake of Disaster

Friday, September 12, 2008

JC Jones MA RN

Hurricane season is stressful to everyone and the disruptions in routine, unexpected expenses and loss of income are especially difficult for those who are evacuated, or whose homes are damaged by storms. The CDC offers these tips for those affected by natural disasters:

• Keep your children safe and remain a caring parent: kids get their cues about how to respond to emergencies from their parents. Focus on comforting them and providing care and shelter for them.
• Get help from family and friends: when you need a break due to the stress you are under.
• If you see someone who is being violent: take action to remove the targeted person from danger and report the matter to authorities.
  
• Avoid use of drugs and alcohol: to relieve stress - relaxed inhibitions will make you a more vulnerable target or may cause you to lash out at others.
• Prevent suicide: by staying active and staying in touch with others. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (1-800-273-8255)

Reach out to others in your community and work together to get through the tough times.


Thank you Radio Nederland for use of photo of Haiti hit by Hurricane Ike.

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