Coping with the Crisis: Practical Support for Youth and Families in Florida and North Carolina
By Afshan Mizrahi, Licensed Therapist at Backpack Healthcare, Clinically Reviewed by: Danielle Flores, LCPC
The recent crisis in Florida and North Carolina has brought overwhelming uncertainty and instability to many lives. As families cope with damage to their homes and interruptions in their routines, the stress can feel all-consuming. For youth, the emotional toll can be especially challenging, leaving them feeling lost in the chaos. At Backpack Healthcare, we want to offer practical, actionable strategies to help families navigate this difficult time.
Understanding the Emotional Impact on Youth
For children and teens, disruptions to normal life—such as displacement or witnessing distress within their families—can have profound emotional effects. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), exposure to such stressful events can lead to increased anxiety, fear, and difficulty concentrating on daily tasks like schoolwork. Young people may struggle to express these feelings, making it harder for caregivers to address their needs.
We understand how heavy this can weigh on parents and caregivers who are already dealing with the tangible stress of property loss, relocation, and financial instability. It’s important to acknowledge that these feelings are valid, and you’re not alone in facing them.
Practical Tips for Families During Uncertainty
Maintain a Routine as Much as Possible:
Structure provides comfort, especially for children. Even if your family has been displaced or your usual daily routine has been interrupted, try to keep some consistent elements in place. This could mean keeping a set bedtime, maintaining a regular schedule for meals, or creating a new, simple daily routine together. These small actions help children regain a sense of security amidst the chaos.
Open Communication:
Encourage your child or teen to express how they’re feeling. Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s been the hardest part for you today?” or, “Is there anything you’d like to talk about?” Acknowledging their fears and concerns without judgment is key. Let them know it’s okay to be scared or upset.
Practice Stress-Relief Techniques Together:
When anxiety spikes, having coping tools can make all the difference. Try practicing deep breathing exercises as a family, or introduce your child to mindfulness techniques. For example, “box breathing—where you breathe in for four counts, hold for four, and breathe out for four—can calm both the body and mind. Practicing these techniques for just a few minutes can provide relief from high-stress levels.
Limit Media Exposure
Constant exposure to news about the crisis can increase anxiety, especially for children. Be mindful of how much media they’re consuming and offer reassurance about what’s being done to help the community recover. It may also help to focus on positive stories, like community efforts to rebuild, which can provide a sense of hope.
Optimism in Action: You Are Not Alone
While the challenges are real, there are reasons to remain hopeful. As Florida and North Carolina begin the recovery process, support is available from community organizations, schools, and healthcare providers. At Backpack Healthcare, we believe that mental well-being is just as important as physical safety, and we’re here to support families every step of the way.
If your family is struggling emotionally during this time, consider visiting our website for free resources to help ease the emotional burden and provide tools to manage stress more effectively. We’re ready to assist you in finding stability for your family during these uncertain times.
Conclusion
The road to recovery may seem long, but remember that you don’t have to navigate it alone. By leaning on one another, practicing self-care, and seeking professional support when needed, you and your family can emerge stronger. At Backpack Healthcare, we’re committed to helping families regain their footing, no matter how turbulent the times may be.