State of Mind: How to calm anxiety regarding severe weather

In Iowa, we are used to extreme weather in various forms throughout the year. From subzero temperatures and blizzards in the winter to blistering heat and droughts in the summer, Iowans are perhaps too familiar with dramatic weather fluctuations. This time of year specifically brings a uniquely heightened awareness of the potential for severe weather. While the physical damage inflicted on our communities in recent years garners the most discussion, the impact of severe weather on mental health is often overlooked.

When considering the effects of severe weather on mental health, it isn’t as simple as focusing only on specific events as they occur. As we head into the summer months in Iowa, we know the potential threat exists for elevated temperatures and humidity, dangerously high winds, tornadoes and floods — all of which we’ve experienced to extreme levels in recent years. But like most things, our minds don’t wait for something to happen before we think or worry about it. And once something has in fact happened, our minds might become even more fixated on the possibility of it happening again, which can bring about even more nervousness. In the case of severe weather, this cycle can be further exacerbated by forecasts and warnings or even important awareness and education efforts.

Research has shown that climate changes or weather events can lead to increases in rates of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, suicide, sleep disruption and even aggression and physical violence. Even if you don’t find yourself experiencing these more serious effects, one study found that 85 percent of people experience at least some increased anxiety around severe weather. This reality makes it imperative that individuals become aware of the potential risks and to care for their own mental health and that of their loved ones, including young people, as it relates to severe weather.

While there are no universal solutions that can work for everyone to handle stress or anxiety stemming from extreme weather, there are recommendations that might help. It can be beneficial to plan ahead and ensure you feel prepared should severe weather develop, including knowing where you’ll go for shelter and having a way to continue to get weather updates.

When forecasts are expecting dangerous weather, it can be tempting to read or listen to everything about the risks, including from social media or potentially uninformed sources. It can be helpful to limit exposure in general and focus only on reputable sources for updates. The National Weather Service and some local news organizations also offer educational opportunities to learn about climate and weather, which can be valuable for some people.

For adults with kids who might be facing weather-related anxiety, it is recommended to be consistently calm and supportive. This can include talking through their feelings, reassuring them that storms are a normal part of nature, helping them understand that most storms do not hurt people and potentially helping to educate them about details of specific weather events.

If, and when, severe weather does occur, it is just as important to care for our mental health in the aftermath. This can include maintaining a normal routine as much as possible, getting proper rest, eating properly and engaging in positive activities. Whether before or after severe weather, if you or someone you know is struggling, it is always appropriate to seek help from a professional.

As extreme climate events have continued to increase in intensity and frequency in recent years, it is more important now than ever to be respectful of and care for our mental health before, during and after severe weather.

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Bryan Busch is a licensed mental health counselor in Cedar Rapids. He also works at Folience, the parent company of The Gazette. He can be reached at bryan.busch@thegazette.com.