Mental health treatment needs increase after storms

HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital has experienced an increase in residents seeking mental health treatment after Hurricane Milton. The hospital has the only voluntary, acute care, behavioral health program in the area that specializes in the unique needs of older adults ages 48 and older. Emma Ballantine, LCSW, Director of Behavioral Health says, “Natural disasters like Hurricane Milton can lead to acute stress reactions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, and insomnia. Disruptions in community support systems can make these conditions worse, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and those living on a limited income. It is important to prioritize mental health to help people recover and rebuild.”

Ballantine offers these top three tips to help with mental wellness after traumatic weather events like hurricanes:

• Stay connected: Reach out to your loved ones, community members, and professionals. Talk about how you are feeling and create strategies to overcome obstacles as a team.
• Take care of the basics: Ensure that you are getting proper nutrition/hydration and sleep. Avoid alcohol and substance use. Get back to your normal routines where possible.
• Give yourself grace: Accept how you are feeling and give yourself space to grieve losses. Take breaks from social media and news feeds that may be triggering.