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Individual Approaches for Stress
Prevention and Management
MANAGEMENT OF WORKLOAD
 | Task
priority levels set with a realistic work plan |
| Existing
workload delegated so workers not attempting disaster response and usual job |
BALANCED LIFESTYLE
| Physical
exercise and muscle stretching when possible |
| Nutritional
eating, avoiding excessive junk food, caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco |
| Adequate
sleep and rest, especially on longer assignments |
| Contact
and connection maintained with primary social supports |
STRESS REDUCTION STRATEGIES
| Reducing
physical tension by taking deep breaths, calming self through meditation,
walking mindfully |
| Using
time off for exercise, reading, listening to music, taking a bath, talking
to family, getting a special meal-to recharge batteries |
| Talking
about emotions and reactions with coworkers during appropriate times |
SELF-AWARENESS
| Early
warning signs for stress reactions recognized and heeded |
| Acceptance
that one may not be able to self-assess problematic stress reactions |
| Over
identification with survivors'/victims' grief and trauma may result in
avoiding discussing painful material |
| Understanding
differences between professional helping relationships and friendships |
| Examination
of personal prejudices and cultural stereotypes |
| Vicarious
traumatization or compassion fatigue may develop |
| Recognition
of when own disaster experience or losses interfere with effectiveness |
Adapted
from: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services.
Tips for Managing and Preventing Stress:
A Guide for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers. Center
for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration:
Rockville
,
MD,
2005.
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