Disasters and traumatic events can be difficult to understand. Following a disaster, people often experience a wide range of emotions from anxiety, distressing thoughts and feelings, and even physical symptoms. Coping strategies include preparation, self-care, and identifying support systems before and after a disaster or traumatic event. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. However, it’s important to find healthy ways to cope when these events happen.
Coping with Grief Reminders
Reminders for people processing grief.
Helping Others Grieve
Supporting others through grief and trauma.
Alcohol, Medication, and Drug Use After a Disaster
After a disaster, substance use may increase. It’s important to recognize if this becomes problem and when to ask for help.
Planning for Older Adults
Resources for older adults before, during, and after a disaster.
Anniversary Reactions to a Traumatic Event
The anniversary of a disaster or traumatic event can bring up feelings of unresolved grief, anxiety, and fear. These feelings are normal and knowing what to expect can help people cope with anniversary reactions.
The Long-Term Impact of a Traumatic Event
What to expect in your personal, family, work, and financial life.
Trauma: What Parents Should Know
Signs and symptoms of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and what parents need to know.
Supporting Your Child in the Face of Trauma
Ways to help your child build resilience if they have experienced trauma.
Helping Children Cope with Emergencies
This informational webpage from the CDC offers insight into the emotional impact on children, how to help them cope, common reactions to an emergency, and more.
Helping Teens Cope After a Natural Disaster
Information from the CDC for parents and professionals working with teens.
ProjectTEACH Parent and Family Resources
Resources cover a variety of topics to help parents and family promote mental health.