COVD-19 has changed everyday life for the entire world drastically. Categorized as a natural disaster, COVID-19 can’t be solved like your average tornado or flood. Unlike traditional natural disaster, our community can’t begin recovery immediately after the event. Instead, the disaster’s impact unravels over time. So what does that mean for us? What can we do?
Check out this chart from SAMSA and the video below to learn more about how communities go through disasters together.
There are several phases of disaster (also known as the disaster recovery roller coaster). These include: Pre-Disaster, Impact, Honeymoon, Disillusionment, & Reconstruction.
So you may wonder: where are we now? Currently we are in the Disillusionment Phase. In this phase, the community as a whole enters into a low. This is often accompanied by grief, anger, or confusion. In this phase, we get tired of the state of our world and we become irritated with other people, especially when we experience triggering events or things we realize we have lost. This stage can last up to a year after the disaster. Yes, we are currently in this stage….but remember you’re not alone if you feel stuck or frustrated.
And don’t forget, this won’t last forever. Sooner or later we will have The Reconstruction Phase where things begin to look and feel a little bit better.
Do you feel like you’re riding the disaster distress roller coaster? Do you need some extra support in navigating your grief during this time?
Show Me Hope is here to help. It’s anonymous, and it’s free.
Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990
Tri-County Mental Health: 816-468-0400
