The recent tragedy of the Guadalupe River flooding has left an indelible mark on Texas residents, bringing with it immense loss and profound grief. Over 100 lives have been lost, including children at summer camps, and many more are still missing. The sheer scale of this disaster has been nothing short of devastating.
For many, the impact is deeply personal – the direct loss of a beloved family member or friend. For others, particularly parents, there’s an overwhelming grief for the unimaginable losses experienced by fellow parents in our community. And for some, this tragedy may have inadvertently unearthed past, unresolved grief, bringing old wounds to the surface. It’s important to acknowledge that experiencing such widespread tragedy can indeed trigger intense feelings of anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These are normal reactions to abnormal events.
In these challenging times, finding healthy ways to move through the grief and trauma is paramount. Here are some tips that can offer a path toward healing:
- Tap into your support system: Reach out to family, friends, faith communities, or any trusted individuals who can offer a listening ear and emotional support. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly cathartic.
- Establish patterns of self-care: Even small acts of self-care can make a difference. This might include prioritizing sleep, eating nutritious meals, engaging in light physical activity, or dedicating time to hobbies you enjoy. These routines can provide a much-needed sense of normalcy and control.
- Limit intake of media coverage: While it’s important to stay informed, constant exposure to news and images of the disaster can be re-traumatizing and heighten anxiety. Consider setting specific times to check updates, and then step away.
- Engage in meaningful activities: Finding ways to contribute, however small, can be empowering. This could involve volunteering, helping neighbors, or simply focusing on activities that bring you a sense of purpose or calm.
Regardless of how this recent tragedy has impacted you, please know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Seeking the help of a mental health professional can provide a safe and supportive space to process your experiences, develop coping strategies, and ultimately, move forward in a healthier way.
Here at New Horizons Center for Healing in North Texas, we are ready to help you process your experience and equip you to move forward. Our licensed mental health professionals are here to provide compassionate support and guidance to help meet your needs.
