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The world that we live in is fragile in many ways. Not all of our buildings are sound structures. Not all of our infrastructure is effective and efficient. When natural disaster strikes, that is, when the power of the natural earth overcomes the power of the man made world, reality is shaken. Houses tremble from 100mph winds and more, foundations crack from earthquakes, electricity is lost, community establishments are lost, lives are lost, homes are lost, and everything that makes up daily life is suddenly gone. As quickly as the earthquake stops shaking, the hurricane winds stop blowing, the tsunami waters settle, and the disaster stops happening, life doesn’t return to normal. FiveThirtyEight writes, “Years after the family is safe and the home is rebuilt, disaster victims could still be struggling with health problems that got a start because of the way a stressful, terrifying situation disrupted their lives. It’s even possible, some researchers say, that the stress and fear alone could create health problems later.”

After a natural disaster leaves the headlines, the trauma lives on for those living in the affected areas, the article explains. Though government and other resources come through to start the rebuilding process, the process is often slow. One government resource heavily utilized is the Disaster Distress Helpline, run by the Emergency Mental Health and Traumatic Stress Services Branch of SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. People can call the helpline to talk about the traumatic experience of the natural disaster. Most calls, according to the branch chief cited in the article, are about solving problems. The many components of daily life affected by a natural disaster can contribute to the experience of trauma. Not being able to access a doctor, a pharmacy, a grocery store, an office, a therapist, and other necessities for maintaining mental health can lead to deep feelings of fear, insecurity, and helplessness. Losing control temporarily during an active disaster is one thing, but to consistently feel out of control in life beyond the disaster is another.

If you are feeling out of control in your life as the result of a traumatic experience, do not give up hope. There is help available. At The Guest House, a residential trauma treatment facility in Ocala, Florida, we believe sharing the darkness in a sanctuary of love and compassion is the birthplace of transformation. Call us today for information: 1-855-483-7800