Survivors of 2011 Natural Disasters Dig Deep for Thanks
Clinical Psychologist Joshua Klapow, Ph.D. Offers Survivors of Natural Disasters Tips to Cope with Thanksgiving
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November 22, 2011The year 2011 was one of the deadliest for natural disaster in the United States since Hurricane Katrina struck land in 2005. Hundreds of people lost their lives to destructive tornadoes, vast floods, and blizzards. With community members lost, homes destroyed, and lives upturned, how should these survivors approach Thanksgiving, the holiday of gratitude?
"For survivors of natural disasters earlier this year, this may be a very different holiday season; they’re grateful for their lives, but guilty that they survived when others didn’t," said Joshua Klapow, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham to EHS Today. "As families gather, many will be reminded of the ones who perished and will not feel holiday joy this year."In times of festivity where joy and cheer seem to be everywhere, survivors might still be struggling with the aftermath of the natural disaster. The following tips to help smooth over the holiday season are offered from Klapow courtesy of EHS Today.
- Accept that this holiday will be different. "Expecting everything to be the same will only lead to disappointment. Accept that this might be difficult, and prepare for the rushes of emotions that may occur," Klapow said.
- Don't over-commit yourself. It’s perfectly fine if survivors are not in a festive mood during the holidays. Choose events that sound most appealing and feel free to decline the ones that feel more like obligations. A polite "no thank you" can excuse you from an event. Don't feel obliged to explain yourself.
- Don’t be afraid to cry. If you’re feeling emotional, allow yourself a moment to grieve or cry before the event. "When emotions are temporarily depleted, it makes it easier to take on the day," Klapow explained.
- Express your gratitude. Try moving forward by modifying traditions or making new ones. Express gratitude for your life and celebrate the lives of those who died. Find joy in the small things around you.
- Follow your faith. If your faith is important, spend time with people who understand and respect your desire to pray and talk about common beliefs, Klapow suggested.
