Hurricane season has a way of getting everyone’s attention. One minute, we’re going about our day, the next we’re checking three weather apps, refreshing the forecast cone, and wondering whether 12 cases of bottled water will be enough.
Floridians aren’t new to hurricanes. We all prepare in different ways; some have parties, some fret. We stock the pantry, charge the flashlights, fill the gas tank, and anchor the porch furniture. But protecting your mental health deserves a place on that checklist, too.
Storm anxiety is real, especially for anyone who has lived through a damaging hurricane, lost property to one, or spent days waiting for power to be restored. But a little preparation can help keep the fear from taking over.
Reining in Storm Anxiety
- Limit the forecast frenzy. Check reliable sources and designate specific times to get updates instead of watching nonstop. Chasing every update can easily become exhausting and overwhelming.
- Plan, plan, plan. Knowing where you’ll go, what you’ll bring, and who you will contact can make the unknown feel more manageable. After all, not everything is out of your control.
- Beat the crowd. Get your supplies early. Crowded stores and last-minute decisions only feed anxiety.
- Talk it out. Let family members or trusted friends know that you’re feeling overwhelmed and make a note to check in on others you know share your concerns.
- Unplug. Watching the news 24/7 won’t make you more prepared. Once you have the information you need, turn it off.
If there’s one thing we learned from rough seasons that brought us hurricanes like Charley, Ian, Irma, and Milton, it’s that our community comes together in difficult times.
Neighbors rally to help one another. Families share food and water. Power eventually comes back. There’s peace to be had in knowing normalcy will return.