Coping after a disaster

Recovery isn’t only about the house. Here’s how to look after yourself and your family.

Losing your home, even for a while, is a real loss. Feeling exhausted, anxious, angry, numb, or unable to focus is a normal reaction. For most people, these feelings ease over time.

For you

Taking care of yourself

Cover the basics: a safe place to stay, regular meals, water, and as much rest as you can get.
Take it one step at a time. Pick the next one or two things to do, not everything at once.
Stay connected with people you trust. Let them help.
Limit news and social media about the disaster.
Be patient with yourself and the people around you. Everyone copes differently.
Remember past strength. Think about how you got through hard times before.

For kids

Helping children cope

Keep routines like meals and bedtimes as normal as you can.
Watch for changes like clinginess, acting out, nightmares, or crying more. Some reactions show up weeks later.
Let them talk and ask questions. Answer honestly, at their level. It’s okay to say “I don’t know yet.”
Remind them they’re safe now and explain your family’s plan.
Give them a job, like helping pick out a new stuffed animal or making a card for a helper.

When to get more help

If trouble sleeping or eating, pulling away from loved ones, or feelings of hopelessness last two weeks or more, reach out. Free, confidential support is available any time.

Emotional support

Disaster Distress Helpline

Free, confidential crisis counseling for anyone affected by a disaster. Call or text, 24/7, multilingual.

Call: 1-800-985-5990
samhsa.gov ↗

Crisis support

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

If you or someone you love is in crisis or thinking about self-harm, call or text 988 any time.

Call: 988
988lifeline.org ↗

This page is general information, not legal, insurance, or medical advice. Programs, phone numbers, and hours change, so confirm details with each organization. Last reviewed November 2026.

Need help now?

Emergency or danger: Call 911
Disaster Victim Services, 24/7: (480) 349-7300
Red Cross: 1-800-RED-CROSS
Local services: dial 2-1-1
Disaster Distress Helpline: call or text 1-800-985-5990