Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event

During and after a disaster, it is natural to experience different and strong emotions. Coping with these feelings and getting help when you need it will help you, your family, and your community recover from a disaster. Connect with family, friends, and others in your community. Take care of yourself and each other, and know when and how to seek help.

People with preexisting mental health conditions should continue with their treatment plans during an emergency and monitor for any new symptoms. Additional information can be found at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSAExternal) website.

Take care of yourself and each other to cope during an emergency or disaster.

Two people holding hands

Information and resources for adults and families.

A smiling couple walking while carrying children on their back.

Information and resources addressing the special emotional needs during a disaster.

Aerial view of a city

Information and resources for emergency planners, state, and local government to support mental health in emergencies.

•	Volunteers loading supplies for shelters onto a truck after a disaster.

Information and resources for government, faith-based, and community leaders to support their communities.

A uniformed responder holding a supply kit walking toward the scene of an emergency

Tips and resources to for emergency responders for resiliency and coping during a disaster.

Page last reviewed: March 19, 2018