How to Address Children’s Emotional Needs During or After a Wildfire
Children may experience intense anxiety, fear, or behavioral changes after a disaster. Here’s how you can help them cope:
🧡 What You May Notice in Children:
Increased nightmares or fear of being alone.
Regression (acting younger than their age).
Decline in school performance.
Tantrums or withdrawal from others.
🛟 How to Support Them:
1. Spend More Time Together:
Let children depend on you more during this time. Offer plenty of affection and reassurance.
2. Provide Play Opportunities:
Younger children can express feelings through activities like drawing or playing. This helps them release tension and process emotions.
3. Encourage Communication:
Some children like to express their feelings with words. Start the conversation! Reassure them you understand their fears and concerns.
4. Maintain Routines:
Keep regular schedules for meals, bedtime, and activities. Consistency can restore a sense of security.
5. Limit Media Exposure:
Avoid letting children repeatedly watch news about the disaster. This can retraumatize them and increase anxiety.
🌟 REMEMBER: Your love, patience, and support are crucial for their recovery.
MiSalud Health is here for you! Send us a text saying “Stress after disaster” at (415) 996-1158 to talk to a mental health professional that can help you. You are not alone!
Remember, MiSalud is a free benefit for you from your employer.
Together, we can help children heal and feel safe again. 🧡
