Palm Beach, FL. – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, families are facing significant emotional and physical challenges. Natural disasters like this can upend daily life, cause immense fear and anxiety, and leave children feeling especially vulnerable. Boys Town, with over 100 years of experience helping children and families through crises, is offering expert tips to support children’s emotional well-being in the aftermath of the storm.
“In South Florida, where hurricanes and natural disasters are a reality, parents serve as a lifeline for their children during difficult times,” said Boys Town South Florida’s Executive Director Bethany Lacey. “Children naturally look to their parents for comfort and security when faced with the aftermath of a storm. While fear and uncertainty are normal reactions, parents can provide a sense of safety by staying consistent, offering a listening ear, and modeling effective coping skills.”
Boys Town Tips for Helping Kids Cope After a Disaster:
- Be Available to Listen: Allow your child to express their feelings, but don't push them to talk if they aren’t ready.
- Provide Reassurance: Help children feel safe by conveying confidence that things will improve and returning to normal routines when possible.
- Seek Support: You might be fearful and unsettled yourself. Seek adult comfort in friends, teachers, and other trusted adults who can offer additional comfort and understanding.
- Monitor Emotional Health: Watch for prolonged signs of distress, such as sleep disturbances or withdrawal, and seek professional help if necessary.
- Encourage Routines: Re-establishing normal daily routines can provide comfort, positive coping and promote healing.
Through all of this, you should remain vigilant and watchful, and continue to keep your eyes and ears open for signals of deeper problems. These might include changes in eating or sleeping habits or not being able to return to normal activities. If emotional difficulties persist for more than two weeks, it may be time to consult a mental health professional. Boys Town offers resources to help families navigate these challenging times, including the Boys Town National Hotline (1-800-448-3000), which provides free, confidential support 24/7.
For more expert advice on how to support your child during a crisis, visit Behavioral Health Services - Boys Town Hospital. To schedule an interview with a Boys Town mental health expert, please contact Jordan Weinandt at Jordan.weinandt@boystown.org or 531-355-1273.
About Boys Town South Florida:
For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America's children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town South Florida has been providing life-changing care to area children and families since 1991. Our programs and services are part of the Boys Town national network and include the organization's research-proven methods, which ensure that troubled children and families across the country receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.
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