Part 4 of our Hurricane Smart Kids series.
If you feel nervous or scared when you hear about a hurricane coming, you are not alone. Lots of kids (and adults!) feel that way. Feeling a little scared about something big and powerful is a normal, healthy reaction. Your brain is just trying to protect you.
Why Storms Can Feel Scary
Hurricanes are big and loud and powerful. The wind howls. The lights might go out. The news might sound serious. Grown-ups might be moving things around the house or packing bags. Here is what is really true: your family is doing all of those things because they love you and they are getting ready. Preparing is what keeps you safe. When grown-ups prepare for a storm, that is not a sign that things are going wrong — it is a sign that things are going right.
Things That Help
1. Ask Your Questions
If there are things you are worried about, ask. You do not need to hold your worries in your head alone. Ask a parent, caregiver, teacher, or another trusted adult. Good questions to ask: Where will we go if we have to leave? What will happen to our pets? What do I do if I feel really scared during the storm?
2. Have a Job
One of the best ways to feel less scared is to have something helpful to do. Ask if you can help with preparations — packing supplies, filling water containers, checking the flashlights. When you are helping, you feel useful and powerful instead of helpless. See our Family Hurricane Plan guide for specific jobs by age.
3. Limit Storm News
Watching the news loop over and over during a storm can make anxiety much worse. Ask your family to update you at specific times instead of watching nonstop.
4. Breathe
When the scary feelings get really big, try this: breathe in slowly for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, breathe out slowly for 4 counts. Repeat three or four times. It actually works — it tells your nervous system to calm down.
5. Talk About the Plan
Knowing what is going to happen — step by step — makes the unknown less scary. Ask your family to walk you through the plan. Plans make things feel manageable.
After the Storm: How You Might Feel
Sometimes kids feel relieved when a storm is over — and sometimes they still feel scared or upset even after the danger has passed. Both are normal. Talk to the adults in your life about how you feel. Your feelings deserve to be heard, even after the storm is gone.
For parents and caregivers: The SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) is available for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to a disaster.