The United Way of Calgary and Area has released the results of a report on disaster recovery and has identified several areas that will present challenges for the city as the recovery operation continues.
“From Crisis to Resiliency” looks at the social challenges after comparable disasters and highlights promising practices and solutions for Calgary.
The report suggests that the five biggest challenges the city faces in the months and years to come are basic needs, housing, mental health, domestic violence, and recovery planning and management.
“What we’ve been able to do is identify some of the things that we can expect and also some of the best practices in responding,” said Lucy Miller, President and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area.
A new school year can be a stress trigger for some families but the research says that a return to school can also help kids heal after they experience a disaster like this.
“It’s a safe place for kids. All of a sudden they’re back to a normal routine. They’re with their friends or with new friends and discovering new people and they have an opportunity to talk about what’s happened and the research shows that talking about the experience is one of the most important things for children,” said Miller. “Art projects, classroom discussions and conversations with teachers about the flood can all help youth heal.”
The United Way says adults can also benefit from discussing their disaster experiences and that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common following a disaster.
“Talking with others who are living the same reality can help people identify new ways of coping,” says Miller. “This research will help agencies and others be proactive in dealing with these problems,” says Miller.
If you need help and don't know where to turn, call 211 and an operator will connect you with a wide range of community, health, government and social services.
For more information, visit the United Way of Calgary and Area website.
From Crisis to Resiliency ~ A Guide for Partners in Flood Recovery
