Stress is typically described as our pattern of responses following any event that taxes our ability to cope. For most of us, these events are simply the background noise for daily experiences, in the form of time demands, interpersonal conflicts, or minor hassles at work, school and home.

Following a more serious crisis however, these coping mechanisms can become overwhelmed. This is particularly true when the event is unpredictable and out of our control, as in the recent hurricanes that affected so many in our community. When it comes to coping with catastrophic stress, a little self-awareness and patience can go a long way towards emotional recovery.

One of the psychological challenges facing post Katrina survivors is dealing not only with individual losses, but with the wide range of reactions shown by those around us. Usually in times of stress, people rely on their support system, yet that is weakened significantly when everyone has experienced the same crisis. Even those with minimal damage might still feel a sense of vulnerability and anxiety about what changes lie ahead. Most people in our area are facing some type of loss, and can expect to go through stages similar to those experienced in grief. Individuals progress through the stages at different rates and in different order even though they're dealing with the same stressful situation. In a typical household, for example, one member might be in denial, saying things aren't so bad, and may wonder why someone else is so angry at insurance adjusters or government officials. A child in the same home may show signs of withdrawal and regression, while another will have worked quickly through the stages to acceptance.

Psychological makeup also plays a role in how emotions are expressed. Some people have immediate and intense outbursts, while others have more of a delayed response. There may even be a gender difference. Men are more likely to experience "fight or flight", where increased levels of adrenaline allow them to be energized enough to deal with the aftermath of a disaster. According to health psychologist Shelley Taylor, some females may instead develop a "tend and befriend" response, nurturing their offspring and relying on social networks to reduce vulnerability. While our reactions may be as unique as we are, the important thing to remember is that each one is valid, and acceptance of ourselves and others is the first step toward successful coping.

Signs & Symptoms

Stress affects the mind as well as the body. Some or even all of these feelings and behaviors are to be expected following a catastrophic event. Also, your level of pre-hurricane stress and past experience in dealing with a crisis can influence your current response.

Mental: Emotional states could swing from profound sadness and discouragement to a feeling of disconnected numbness or irritability. As with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), flashbacks or frequent replay of disaster images may occur along with accompanying anxiety as the mind attempts to de-sensitize itself to the trauma. Other cognitive symptoms include confusion, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating, particularly when familiar work and home environments change.

Physical: Many people change their patterns of eating and sleeping out of necessity, but stress also wears down the body and depletes immunity and natural energy stores without our even realizing it. The result is fatigue, changes in weight, and increased incidence of minor physical ailments, such as colds and allergies. Pre-existing medical conditions such as Hypertension, Diabetes, and Asthma may also worsen and should be monitored closely during recovery.

How to Cope

Get Back On Schedule: Basic routines like regular mealtimes and consistent patterns of sleeping/waking tend to restore a sense of comfort and security. Build in time for hobbies and other enjoyable activities. If you are sharing a home with displaced relatives, divide up household responsibilities and respect everyone's need for privacy.

Spend Time With Others: Sharing the burden with other people is one of the most proven and effective ways to reduce stress. How often you spend time interacting with others is not nearly as important as simply the perception that you have at least one friend or family member you can call on if needed. The flip side of social support is being a good listener. Resist the urge to tell someone how they should or shouldn't feel - advice or judgment of someone else's reaction is far less helpful than simply offering acceptance and a receptive ear.

See Your Doctor: Chances are, medical appointments were missed or pushed to the bottom of the to-do list over the past few months. More than ever, it's important to address
medical concerns as well as focus on preventative care.

Channel Energy Into Action: In the face of overwhelming demands, it helps to break a large job into smaller, more manageable tasks. The sense of satisfaction from completing one task will boost your confidence to solve the really tough issues. For big decisions, determine your options, list pros and cons, and visualize the consequences of each alternative.

Adjust Your Focus: A common mistake is to view every crisis as a problem that can be solved. When things are out of our control, coping should focus instead on our outlook and emotions. It may be difficult to see beyond broken homes and disrupted lives, but even when painful, crises can serve as opportunities for personal growth.

Focus on what's good and right in your life. Forgive your mistakes and move on. In the words of Hans Selye, the father of stress research, "It's not stress that kills us, its our reaction to it".

Exercise: If you can find time for just a brisk 10 minute walk, being active can boost mood-enhancing endorphins and make you feel like doing more.

Rest & Relax: Sleep deprivation only magnifies stress and makes it difficult to solve problems. Meditation and progressive muscle relaxation are easy to learn and a great way to reduce anxiety.

Ask For Help: Adapting to major stress takes time. Seek professional help if you feel your symptoms are severe and prolonged. Far from being a sign of weakness, knowing when to ask for help contributes to active and healthy coping skills.