9 ways to take care of your mental health after Hurricane Ian

ORLANDO, Fla. — As Hurricane Ian has made its way through Florida, many residents may feel the residual stress of the storm.

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The American Psychological Association said that understanding common responses to stress during natural disasters can help you manage your mental health.

Read: LIVE UPDATES: Ian regains hurricane strength as it moves away from Florida toward South Carolina

The APA has some recommendations for Floridians, which we have compiled in the following list:

1. Take things one step at a time.

2. Get shelter if you do not have access to power or are unable to stay in your home.

3. Stay up to date on relevant information that can help ease your anxiety.

Read: Hurricane Ian: Here’s how to track power outages in Central Florida

4. Ask trusted family and friends for support.

5. Allow yourself to feel the emotions you are experiencing, including mourning what you have lost.

6. Ensure the safety of your family, friends and pets.

Read: Dangers in flooded areas: What you need to know

7. Know that abnormal reactions to unfamiliar situations, such as shortness of breath, are natural responses to stressful situations.

8. If you have trouble sleeping, consider relaxation techniques such as meditation.

9. Avoid alcohol and drugs, which may lead to depression and stop you from healing from the tragedy.

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People rescued from Ian floodwaters around Central Florida Crews around Central Florida help rescue people from Hurricane Ian’s floodwaters.

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