Hurricane Harvey: A Year Later
Written by Kristin Tallackson, M.A.
As we come upon the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, we may experience a multitude of emotions. Some may feel a sense of relief that the hardship of the flood is over as they move back into their homes and continue with daily life tasks. However, others of us may still sense the emotional turmoil that Hurricane Harvey left us with. Among the millions of people affected by Hurricane Harvey were millions of children. They watched as their homes were destroyed, schools were cancelled, and their little worlds were interrupted.
Many children still talk about the “big hurricane” that came to Houston. It is important to take time out of your day to reflect with your child. You may be asking “how?”. Here are some pointers to help you start the conversation with your children:
· Set aside some quiet time where little interruptions occur, ensuring that your child feels completely heard
· Discover what they know about the natural disaster
· Ask them what they want to know
· Allow them to express their emotions, freely
· Reassure them that it is okay to feel the way they do and that you experience those emotions as well. Example: “It’s okay that you felt scared, I did too
· Make a plan for different types of natural disasters. This will give your child a sense of security of what to do if it were to happen again.
Written by: Kristin Tallackson, M.A.
Kristin is a counselor at Heights Family Counseling and is licensed in two states. Kristin's counseling approach is to offer a safe place for you to process and work through a multitude of circumstances, while offering valuable insight and perspective into whatever journey you may find yourself. Her philosophy is to embrace you where you are, equip you with tools, coping mechanisms and knowledge, and empower you to take those tools and lead a fulfilling life.
If your life is affected by Hurricane Harvey, trauma therapy can help. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.