Behavioral health specialists warn of heightened ‘hurricane anxiety’
As if Americans weren’t dealing with enough stress.
Predictions of above-average hurricane activity this summer has behavioral specialists across Florida warning of a significant uptick in “hurricane anxiety.”
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In a recent publication released by HCA Florida Healthcare the stress of preparing for a pending storm can layer on top of already simmering frustrations associated with high gas prices, supply chain problems and the rising cost of goods.
“From a mental health perspective, we’re talking about a perfect storm, says Mark Cardillo, program director of behavioral health for HCA Florida West Tampa Hospital, part of HCA Florida Healthcare. “It’s the totality of all the stresses we’re currently experiencing compounded by worries of a pending hurricane.”
Floridians know the drill when a hurricane is projected to make landfall. The long lines and empty shelves at the grocery store. Hardware stores slammed, selling out of plywood to board the homes. Gas station traffic wrapped around the block and beyond waiting to fill up the car and the generator.
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It’s these types of experiences that can rattle the most experienced hurricane prepper. Account for the record number of people who have moved to the Sunshine State with no hurricane experience and that anxiety can become amplified.
“You’re going to see anger, poor frustration tolerance, lack of eating and a lack of focus,” Cardillo says. “We also see increases in drug and alcohol abuse as well as acts of domestic violence.”
Helping the elderly
The elderly population can be especially vulnerable to the anxiety felt from an impending storm.
Kadesha Evans, executive director of behavioral health at HCA Florida West Hospital in Pensacola says that elderly persons, especially those living alone, often lack the information that would ease their anxiety about a storm simply because they may struggle to access updates on a mobile phone or desktop computer like most of the population.
“It all goes back to the unknown of what’s actually happening,” Evans adds. “That’s why it’s important for the elderly not only to get information, but to get it in a way they can understand, whether that’s from their adult children or from some other form of support.”
Healthy Prep
Mental health experts recommend having a plan to prepare for a storm. This should include securing essential supplies to having an evacuation plan well in advance.
Health activities can also help ease the burden of anxiety. These can include reading, exercise, or maybe working on a puzzle.
As for helping the elderly, Evans advises adult children of elderly persons address the core reasons of their loved one’s anxiety.
“Even if you have plans in place, we need to address the core reasons of one’ anxiety,” she adds. “It’s about actively listening to what they are actually afraid of.”
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