As a psychotherapist living in Florida, I have experienced firsthand the emotional toll that hurricane season takes on people. But I did not always understand this anxiety.
Coming from Colombia, a place where hurricanes are rare, I was not prepared for the stress I felt during my first hurricane season here. I remember the constant news updates, the grocery stores running out of supplies, and the unsettling feeling of uncertainty. This experience gave me a unique insight into the kind of anxiety many Floridians deal with every year.
Hurricane anxiety is a real and common experience, especially here in Florida where hurricane season brings a constant sense of uncertainty. The unpredictability of the storms, combined with past traumatic experiences, can elevate anxiety levels for many people. While some worry is natural (and healthy), excessive anxiety can interfere with daily life and mental well-being.
In my practice, I often hear from clients who feel overwhelmed as hurricane season approaches. Whether it’s the fear of physical destruction, concerns for loved ones, or the media’s intense storm coverage, the stress can become unmanageable.
Understanding the roots of this anxiety is the first step toward coping with it.
Hurricane season can affect emotional health. For many, it triggers feelings of helplessness, especially after experiencing a particularly destructive storm. The constant worry about potential damage, loss, and evacuation can take a mental toll over time.
Even if a hurricane does not hit, the anticipation and preparation can leave people emotionally drained.
It is important to recognize when anxiety is becoming more than just preparedness.
Common symptoms of hurricane anxiety include:
When these symptoms become frequent, they can impact daily functioning and quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing this level of stress, it’s time to consider implementing coping strategies.
As someone who’s gone through this transition myself, I know that preparation is one of the best ways to alleviate hurricane anxiety. But beyond keeping enough supplies, we must focus on mental preparation. Here are a few strategies I recommend:
Limit Media Consumption: While staying informed is important, too much exposure to hurricane coverage can heighten anxiety. Set boundaries around how often you check for updates, and where those updates come from.
Focus on What You Can Control: Create a hurricane preparedness plan. Knowing you are physically ready can ease the mental burden. Have evacuation routes, emergency kits and share the plans with your loved ones.
Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises: Practicing mindfulness can help ground you during moments of heightened anxiety. Breathing exercises (4-4-6), meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can be particularly helpful in managing stress during hurricane season.
Build a Support System: It’s easy to feel isolated when dealing with anxiety, but community is a great resource. Reach out to friends, neighbors, or family members to share your feelings and offer mutual support.
Technology can be a double-edged sword when it comes to hurricane anxiety. On one hand, constant notifications and storm alerts can increase stress. On the other hand, apps that provide accurate, up-to-date information without sensationalizing the event can offer comfort.
There are times when hurricane anxiety becomes more than just a seasonal concern. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent anxiety, trouble sleeping, or feelings of hopelessness related to hurricane season, it is important to seek professional support.
As a psychotherapist, I encourage my clients to reach out for help before their anxiety becomes debilitating.
Hurricane anxiety is a challenge many Floridians face, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Whether it is your first hurricane season, or you have lived through many, the stress is valid but manageable. By preparing both physically and mentally, building a support system, and recognizing when to seek help, you can face
hurricane season with more confidence and calm.
Let’s not only prepare for the storms but also take steps to care for our emotional well-being.
