Researchers and disaster-response specialists say that preparing for emergencies before they occur can help reduce psychological distress while also improving physical safety. The guidance comes as communities across the United States continue to face weather-related disasters ranging from destructive storms to major wildfires.

Ruben Juarez, a health economist at the University of Hawaii who directed the Maui Wildfires Exposure Study examining the impacts of the deadly 2023 Maui fires, said preparation serves an important role beyond emergency readiness.

He noted that planning can be one of the most effective tools available for both safety and mental well-being. Findings from the Maui study also showed that mental health effects extended beyond those directly impacted by the fires, affecting many people throughout the wider community.

Emergency Planning Can Reduce Feelings of Helplessness

Mental health specialists who work with disaster-affected communities say uncertainty often fuels anxiety during severe weather events.

Melissa Brymer, a psychologist and director of terrorism and disaster programs at the UCLA-Duke National Center for Child Traumatic Stress, said creating an evacuation strategy and assembling emergency supplies can provide individuals and families with a greater sense of control. Experts recommend including pets, people with disabilities, expectant mothers and others with specialized needs when developing emergency plans.

Officials also encourage residents to stay informed through trusted weather alerts and public safety information while recognizing that some aspects of severe weather remain beyond human control. Reliable information can help reduce uncertainty and support informed decision-making during emergencies.

Supporting Children During Severe Weather

Mental health professionals advise parents and caregivers to discuss storms and other weather threats with children in a calm and factual manner.

Brymer said children often take emotional cues from adults around them. While it is appropriate to acknowledge that severe weather can be stressful, experts recommend avoiding conversations that may unintentionally increase fear or panic among younger family members. Instead, providing age-appropriate information and reassurance can help children better understand unfolding events.

Recovery Extends Beyond Physical Damage

Mental health experts emphasize that emotional recovery continues long after immediate threats have passed.

Returning to familiar routines, reconnecting with support networks and participating in community recovery efforts can help restore a sense of normalcy. Activities such as volunteering, donating supplies or assisting neighbors may also help counter feelings of helplessness by providing a sense of purpose.

The experience of Asheville, North Carolina restaurant owner Kevin Westmoreland illustrates those challenges. After Hurricane Helene caused extensive flooding damage to his business, he said coping strategies such as meditation and focusing on one step at a time helped him navigate the aftermath. The restaurant has since reopened following repairs and renovations.

Recognizing When Additional Help May Be Needed

Health organizations caution that ongoing distress following a disaster should not be ignored.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America advises people affected by severe weather to seek support from friends, relatives, therapists or others who can provide assistance. Persistent symptoms lasting for several weeks may indicate a more serious mental health condition, including post-traumatic stress disorder, and could warrant professional evaluation.

As communities continue to face increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, public health experts stress that preparation, access to accurate information and strong social support systems remain among the most effective tools for managing both the physical and psychological impacts of disasters.

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