What to do if you have PTSD in Thunderstorms...

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that almost 7% of people in the U.S. have suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

People who have PTSD may experience panic during thunderstorms. Thunderstorms and lightning can set off  a person’s alarm bells.

SERVPRO of Guelph offers these guides to coping with PTSD during storms: 

The best strategy is to be prepared.

• Take care of your emotional health. See a therapist. Learn relaxation exercises. When you feel anxious, you can relax yourself
• Know when a thunderstorm is likely. Plan what you will do during a thunderstorm  
• Take care of your physical health. Eat a healthy diet. Get enough sleep. Do not rely on alcohol or other drugs.  

During a Thunderstorm...

• Slow down your breathing
• Look around. Notice where you are. Notice that you are in a safe place
• Distract yourself from the storm. Wear headphones and listen to music. Sit in a pop-up tent
• Talk with someone you trust

All of this can be compounded if the storm generates damage to your home or office. Sometimes flooding occurs, while other times you may spring a leak. If this happens, give SERVPRO of Guelph a call and we can make the water damage “Like it never even happened.”