Expert Tips for Managing Pre-Storm Anxiety

Experiencing anxiety before an impending storm is common, especially after witnessing severe weather events in the past. Mental health professionals, including those from Baylor College of Medicine, offer practical strategies to help individuals cope with the anticipatory stress that often accompanies weather warnings. Recognizing signs of distress is crucial; adults may feel irritable, have difficulty sleeping, or experience physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. Children may not display typical anxiety symptoms but might seem fearful, irritable, or withdrawn, particularly if they have a history of weather-related trauma. Parents should stay attentive to their child's behavior to provide appropriate support.

To reduce pre-storm anxiety, individuals are advised to limit exposure to news media, which can heighten fears. Developing a clear emergency plan, ensuring a safe environment, and maintaining a reliable support network are essential. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, and continuing therapy if necessary, can also alleviate stress.

After the storm, coping strategies include engaging in mindfulness activities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise, and utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to address anxiety and depressive symptoms. Watching news content cautiously, preferably through reading reputable outlets rather than continuous TV or social media feeds, helps avoid unnecessary emotional triggers. If anxiety significantly impairs daily functioning, seeking professional help is recommended.

By adopting these proactive measures, individuals can better manage their emotional responses to storms and foster resilience in the face of natural disasters.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-expert-pre-storm-anxiety.html