Gustav taking a mental toll on some residents

Gustav taking a mental toll on some residents

Posted: Sep 9, 2008 06:29 AM EDT


By Caroline Moses


BATON ROUGE, LA (WAFB) - Recovery from Gustav can be traumatic, and with another storm looming just outside the gulf, the pressure is on. Many of us are feeling worn out and nervous. Some of it is left over from Gustav, but also because Ike is approaching the Gulf of Mexico. Mental health experts say these feelings are normal and even common for south Louisianians.

Latonia Dunbar's house was severely damaged by Hurricane Gustav. So now, she questions the stability of Louisiana's weather and her safety. "It keeps you on edge," she says. She also says her questions have taken a serious toll on her mental well-being. "When sky cloud and rain down, never thought would have flashback or PSTD thing going on."

"Feeling despondent, angry, rageful, depressed, isolated. Those are normal reactions." Dr. Daphne Cain teaches and studies post traumatic stress disorder at LSU. She says high anxiety is particularly common for those who have already experienced large storms, and for children. She says there are actions you can take to minimize those feelings. "Try to push yourself to be social with people, with family and friends, to reach out and connect ‘cause that can be helpful in lowering anxiety."
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