Natural Disasters Can Leave Deep Psychological Scars

Insights by Lindsay Seeger

When hurricanes roar ashore, wildfires race across hillsides, or earthquakes strike without warning, the destruction is often visible - shattered homes, downed power lines, scarred landscapes. But Lindsay Seeger, an adjunct instructor in Psychology at Lebanon Valley College, says the invisible emotional toll can be just as devastating and far more lasting.

During a disaster, people often experience intense fear, shock, confusion, and helplessness. In the days and weeks that follow, it's common to see anxiety, trouble sleeping, intrusive memories, emotional numbness, or a sense of being constantly on edge. Some recover naturally over time, but others develop long-term conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or prolonged anxiety.

The type of disaster often shapes the emotional experience. Hurricanes may bring prolonged stress from evacuation and displacement. Wildfires - with their speed and unpredictability - can leave residents in a state of heightened alert, fearing flare-ups. Earthquakes strike suddenly, creating what Seeger calls "a deep loss of safety and heightened startle responses." Despite these differences, the core feelings of fear, loss, and uncertainty are universal.

Responses can vary widely even among people who endure the same event. Factors like previous trauma, mental health history, coping skills, social support, and the scale of personal loss all influence recovery. "Every house in a neighborhood might face the same storm," Seeger said, "but one may have a strong roof, another may already have leaks, and a third may still be under repair from the last storm. Our mental and emotional 'structures' work the same way."

Seeger says managing fear in the moment is crucial - not to erase it, but to prevent it from overwhelming decision-making. She recommends techniques such as slow, steady breathing, focusing on immediate tasks, using physical grounding, and staying connected to others. Naming the emotion out loud - for example, "I am feeling fear because this is a dangerous situation" - can reduce its intensity. She often points people to the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise, which draws attention to things you can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste to shift focus away from panic and back to the present moment.

Preparation, she says, isn't only about stocking supplies - it's about mental readiness. That means knowing the risks in your area, creating and practicing an emergency plan, and using visualization to mentally rehearse calm responses. Strong social connections also make a difference. "Being mentally ready doesn't mean you won't be scared," she said. "It means you have tools to manage that fear and act effectively when it counts."

For communities hit by disasters regularly, long-term resilience requires more than just rebuilding. Seeger emphasizes fostering strong social connections through neighborhood networks and community groups; promoting accessible, culturally sensitive mental health services; and involving residents in preparedness and recovery efforts. She also points to the value of integrating cultural and spiritual practices into recovery programs, providing education on stress management, strengthening economic stability, and running community disaster drills that include mental health components. "Connected, informed, and supported communities recover faster and suffer less long-term harm," she said.

Friends and family also play a vital role in recovery, providing comfort, stability, and hope during an emotionally turbulent time. Seeger recommends:

• Listen actively and patiently - Let your loved one share feelings and experiences at their own pace without rushing to "fix" things.
• Validate their emotions - Acknowledge that fear, sadness, anger, and confusion are normal after trauma.
• Offer practical help - Meals, childcare, transportation, or household tasks can ease immediate pressures.
• Encourage professional support when needed - Suggest counseling if distress is prolonged or functioning is impaired.
• Be patient over the long term - Check in regularly, even months later, as some reactions are delayed.
• Respect cultural and personal coping styles - Support their preferred ways of processing the event.
• Help rebuild social connections - Encourage participation in community activities to combat isolation.
• Watch for warning signs of crisis - If you notice hopelessness, self-harm talk, or substance abuse, connect them with help immediately.

Ultimately, disasters leave marks that extend far beyond the physical landscape. They challenge people's sense of safety, connection, and hope. But Seeger insists that healing is not just about waiting for time to dull the pain - it's about building the structures of support that allow people to rise again. "When communities are connected, compassionate, and prepared," she said, "people don't just survive. They find new strength in one another, and sometimes, a deeper sense of purpose."