Health/Wellness Tips >> After Hurricane Katrina

After Hurricane Katrina

Last year we experienced Francis, Ivan and Charlie.  Now Katrina!  Characterized by authorities as one of the most powerful hurricanes in the history of the United States, the full impact is yet to be determined.  What is known however is that the end of the storm is not the end of the effects.  In terms of psychological trauma and secondary impact, the full extent may persist for weeks, months and in some cases, years.  It can be felt by those directly affected as well as those who are indirectly impacted.  The impact of a 'natural disaster' can be different (and worse) than one which is man-made (war, terrorist activity).  Natural disasters are out of our control, leaving us with a helpless, terrified feeling and no one to blame.  We are left feeling there are few resources with which to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

In today's electronic age, students were able to witness Katrina's devastation as it  happened, seeing video replays endless times which can have a re-traumatizing effect. For students who have experienced past disasters or traumatic events, the impact of Katrina may be especially stress provoking.  The constant viewing of Katrina's cruel aftermath can undermine their sense of fairness with attendant 'survivor guilt'.  There can be the nagging thought that what happened to the residents of the Gulf Coast, can as easily happen to me. In addition, it is not unusual for students to feel guilty about the plight of those affected, creating an additional dimension of stress.  Whether directly or indirectly affected by Katrina, some of the common reactions that students may  experience are: 

• Disbelief and shock
• Worry and anxiety about the future
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions
• Emotional numbness
• Recurring thoughts about the event
• Sadness, depression
• Difficulty sleeping, falling asleep
• Feeling powerless, vulnerable
• Irritability, anger

MANAGING DISASTER RELATED STRESS

It is perfectly normal for students to have a wide range of emotions following a traumatic event-with the awareness that everyone will experience the event and accompanying stress differently.  There is however some basic strategies that can be used to help students address the stress they may be feeling.  As a faculty or staff member, encourage them to:

• DISCUSS CONCERNS.  By talking about their concerns, students can relieve  stress and discover others share similar experiences.
• TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES.  In times of stress, it is important to get sufficient rest, eat balanced meals and exercise, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake.
• REACH OUT TO OTHERS.  Through helping others, a sense of purpose can be achieved in situations that feel beyond their control.                                                                                                                                                          
• SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS.  In stressful times, friends can be a great comfort and source of support.  It is also helpful to encourage them to stay in touch with family via telephone or email.
• SEEK HELP.  If their feelings of stress persist or interfere with daily life, do not hesitate to refer for professional assistance.  Discourage them from 'going it alone'.  Seeking help is not a sign of weakness.  Campus resources that can be of assistance are:

*Counseling and Psychological Services: A Multicultural Center (free and confidential psychological counseling) – (303)-492-6766

* Wardenburg Psychological Health and Psychiatry, (303)-492-5654

*Raimy Clinic, (303)-492-5177

*Center for Multicultural Affairs, (303)-492-5667

*Office of Victim Assistance, (303)-492-8858

The consultation services of the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program are available to all faculty and staff who may have questions regarding a student or desire assistance in how to assist students experiencing stress related to hurricane Katrina.  For assistance, please call (303)-492-3020 or contact us at Room 220, Willard Hall.