In light of the recent tornadoes that have devastated several towns in Oklahoma, I wrote this post to provide information on ways to support your child after a natural disaster.
A natural disaster, such as a tornado, threatens the assumptions of safety. The inconsistent pattern of tornadoes can leave feelings of guilt in those spared. Children may develop unusual ideas about why a tornado did or did not hit their home.
For children who have experienced a previous difficult experience such as abuse, neglect or loss; a natural disaster can trigger earlier memories and leave the child in a state of extreme fear. This can be exacerbated by seeing caregivers who are usually their safe base in a state of shock and fear themselves due to the loss of their home, cherished pets, memorabilia, etc.
As with all natural disasters, there may be a spectrum of psychological effects. Many families will experience emotional and physical exhaustion at the very least. Children and adults frequently experience trauma reminders, during which they may suddenly relive and re-experiences the emotions, fears, thoughts and perceptions they experienced at the time of the tornado. This is a very scary and overwhelming experience. Typical trauma triggers include: tornado watches/warnings, thunderstorms, dark clouds, high winds and hail.
Common emotional reactions of children and family members exposed to a tornado include:
- Feelings of insecurity, unfairness, anxiety, fear, anger, sadness, despair, and worries about the future
- Fear that another tornado will occur
- Believing myths or folklore as to the cause of the tornado
- Disruptive behaviors, irritability, temper tantrums, agitation, or hyperactivity
- Clinging/dependent behaviors or avoidance and phobic symptoms
- Physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches, loss of appetite, nightmares, or sleep problems
- Increased concerns regarding the safety of family members, friends, and loved ones
- School-based problems, with decreased motivation and school performance
Adolescents may differ from younger children in how they respond to a tornado or other natural disaster. Some believe they will not live long and may exhibit:
- Socially withdrawn, angry, or irritable
- Risky behavior
- Conflict with authority
As a caregiver, you can support the child/adolescent by:
- Listening and reflecting feelings (whether they are realistic or not)
- Provide age appropriate information (a little information for a young child and more detailed information for an older child.) Do not give a child too much information.
- Connect with your support system (family, church, community)
- Limit the child’s exposure to news coverage of the disaster.
- Try to provide as much of a routine as possible.
- Take care of yourself, be sure to eat, sleep at least 8 hours and seek counseling for yourself if needed.
- Allow the child to write letters or cards to those who lost their homes or their lives.
- Seek professional counseling services with a counselor that specializes in children and trauma if symptoms listed above last longer than 3-4 weeks. I will provide pro bono services to those affected by the tornadoes, please call 405.237.8665.
See the links below for a great resource to use with your child after a natural disaster.
Resource for Parents to Support their Child after a Natural Disaster
National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Parenting