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Supporting your child following natural disaster
Here are some insights that might be helpful as you support your child at this difficult time.
How might my child react to what has happened?
Just like us, children may be feeling scared, anxious and overwhelmed. Children and young people will show this in different ways, depending on their age, understandings, life experiences, personality and available support. The following are the kinds of reactions you might see in your child (or experience yourself) following the disaster:
- high state of alert and stress
- emotional distress
- emotionally flat or frozen
- irritability, nervousness or jumpiness
- sleeping difficulties
- appetite changes
- physical complaints (stomach aches, headaches)
- nightmares or intrusive, distressing thoughts
- wanting to stay close together (being 'clingy')
- children regressing to younger behaviours.
These are reactions many children experience in the days and weeks following a natural disaster. Should these become worse or prolonged it is important to seek professional support.
We cannot change what our children have seen or experienced nor the distress they are feeling. However, there are things we can do to help them cope and recover well.
How can I support my child?
In the days and weeks following natural disaster, children and young people will likely benefit from:
Safety
Children need to feel the protection and comfort of their parents or other familiar caregivers. Your child may wish to be held, hugged, physically close to you, or at least know where you are. Remind them they are loved, important and safe, especially if they are in an unfamiliar environment. Let them know that other adults (family, community members, SES volunteers) are doing everything they can to keep them safe. Your consistent, comforting presence helps them regain a sense of emotional and physical safety.