Recent days have been devastating. Today I want to focus my energy on writing about the recent floods. Many people are affected by this in several ways.

First, I want to mention that this kind of natural disaster is traumatic for many people on an individual level, family level, and community level.

Second, you might notice that right now people are more in the shock phase of what is happening, which is completely normal. It is difficult to wrap our brains around what kind of damage has happened and continues to happen. As we start a new week, you might notice that concentration (for adults and children) will be more difficult and planning/decision making might take more energy than usual.

Next, I want to mention that people will be feeling like they are in "survival mode". As Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs states, we need our physiological (food, water, shelter, rest) and safety needs to be met before we can focus on our psychological health needs. Once our basic needs for survival are met, then we can work on the anger, sadness, and grief. 

Lastly, I wanted to provide some resources in case you or others you know are affected. Here is an article with places people can go who need help due to the flooding, as well as ways to donate to help our community.

Trauma can feel very isolating. Please feel free to reach out if you or someone you know needs support, and know there is a whole community wanting to help.

Thanks for reading and being in connection with me,

Steph