Be prepared for how you will handle unexpected incidents, stress, and fear.
- Think about what factors would cause you significant stress or fear, such as separation from family, severe weather, earthquakes, or other events.
- Be aware of how you might react under such pressure. How do you handle unexpected events, pressure, stress, and fear?
- Think about how you generally cope with increased pressure, stress, and fear. Do you know ways and methods to deal with stress and fear and achieve balance?
An emergency can be very stressful. To minimise stress, it is important to be mentally prepared, know your own reactions, and be aware of the tools we have to cope with the stress. This way, we make better and more composed decisions when danger is imminent. This method is well-known among athletes for achieving better results.
Be aware of the potential dangers in your area
- Fire
- Flood
- Avalanche
- Mudslide
- Storm
- Earthquakes
- Volcanic eruptions
- Power outage
- Impassable roads
- Something else?
Make sure you know who you can call for information
- Monitor the media / radio
- Red Cross Helpline - 1717
- The Icelandic Road Administration - 1777
- NOTE: The emergency number - 112 is only for emergencies, NOT FOR INFORMATION
Also, have the phone numbers of people you can call if you need assistance. These could be friends, relatives or neighbours.
Trauma Response
People's mental and physical reactions to trauma can vary and may be determined by the type of trauma and how we cope with it.
In the aftermath of a disaster or emergency, all sorts of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings can arise, and our behavior can change.
Trauma has both physical and mental consequences that are normal reactions to abnormal circumstances.
Examples of the effects of trauma:
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Muscle tension and pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea
- Anxiety
- Poor concentration
- Guilt
- Sadness
- Anger
- Uncomfortable memories
- Avoidance (We avoid discussing the event)
Some people experience numbness or feel nothing, have difficulty making daily decisions, and may even isolate themselves. Sometimes, alcohol and drug use increases in the aftermath of trauma.
It might help to:
- Maintain a daily routine and do things that bring you pleasure
- Eat healthy food, get regular sleep, and exercise
- Accept help
- Allow yourself to feel bad sometimes and to grieve
- Take one step at a time
- Not turn to alcohol and drugs
Children react differently to trauma and loss than adults. Their mood can fluctuate and suddenly change from being sad to playing and having fun.
Children's reactions:
- They can become aggressive towards caregivers and other children
- They often become very clingy with their caregivers
- Separation anxiety
- Reverting to infantile behaviour such as thumb-sucking, bed-wetting, or being unable to sleep alone