URMC / Employee Assistance Program / News & Events / UR Medicine EAP Blog / October 2023 / Prepare for Disasters and Catastrophes Prepare for Disasters and Catastrophes No matter where you live, a natural disaster or catastrophe can happen. Are your family and home prepared to face an event that could completely upend your life? Denial (“it won’t happen here (or to me)”) and procrastination in taking preparatory steps are your worst enemies. Find information and steps to take, along with guidance and checklists, at www.ready.gov. After experiencing the effects of a disaster or catastrophe, be mindful of signs or symptoms indicating a need for mental health support—such as emotional distress that lingers, sleep disturbances, somatic or physical symptoms like headaches and gastrointestinal distress, or a desire to withdraw or remain isolated. 10/12/2023 You may also like Avoid the Stress of Last-Minute Income Tax Preparation May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: Is My Family Member Mentally Ill? Should I Get Help for a Crisis? Manage Stress Right Now: Start Sooner, Procrastinate Less