The NJ Division of Disaster Branch, through a FEMA grant, is offering help to those who are still having trouble coping and living in fear after the hurricane.

No one who lives through a disaster is untouched by the experience. Severe storms and flooding may cause emotional distress, threaten your sense of control and safety, and affect many aspects of your life.

If you haven't recovered emotionally or mentally from the storm you could face long-term problems. There is help to get your stress levels under control and help you meet the challenges of recovering from the disaster.There is a way to learn how to cope with your loss or fear.

It's important to remember that there is no one correct way to react emotionally to storms and floods. Everyone reacts differently. Or you could have different reactions all day long. People get through the emotional challenges of a disaster in their own time and on their own terms.

Some reactions to storms and floods:

-- Recurring dreams or nightmares about Sandy

-- Trouble concentrating or remembering things

-- Feeling numb, withdrawn or disconnected

-- Having bursts of anger or intense irritability

-- Persistent physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems or muscle tension, etc.

-- Being overprotective of your family's safety

--Avoiding reminders of the storm or flood

-- Being tearful or crying for no apparent reason.

If you notice that a loved one, friend or co-worker's behavior hasn't improved since Sandy, pass along this information.

No one is alone. Call the toll-free helpline at 877-294-HELP or go to www.disastermentalhealthnj.com.

 

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