The series of storms that arrived in Portugal in recent weeks have put much of our country to the test. These were days of fear, uncertainty, anguish and a feeling of loss. In the most affected areas, there were moments of panic that spread to the rest of the country through news and reports, practically in real time, and which created more anxiety in relation to the next storm. What would be the next danger zone?
In Portugal, although it is not something new, we are more used to the chaos caused by fires than by floods and storms. Also a result of the drought we have had in recent years and which are our most recent memories. In any case, these events caused by the force of nature have a direct impact on populations and arrive with such violence that they are impossible to contain.
The Order of Portuguese Psychologists, in partnership with DGS and ANEPC, launched a guide to support the population on emotional recovery from storms and floods. Now begins a long work of recovering people, material goods, jobs, public and private structures important for people’s daily lives. The truth is that these situations may happen more frequently, cyclically, and at both poles: the flood/flood and the drought/fires.
Regardless of the situation, when it calms down and the page begins to turn, cleaning and reconstruction work begins. The community effect has a huge impact on this process. From the fear phase because you anticipate something coming until the start of work, support from peers, neighbors, colleagues and family is essential. In addition to emotional support, the detection of warning signs in others, it is people’s energy that sets the pace for the return to reality. However, this requires important negotiations between employees and organizations. The most important age group for this return to normality is those of working age and, therefore, working.
Even if in a subtle way, organizations that are able to read the needs of people and local structures and provide support at this stage will also have future benefits. It can be in goods, in time, in labor, in real interest. The sense of community is essential. It is necessary for services to function (eg schools) so that productivity is also gradually restored.
Although the focus is now on recovery, we must not forget to add lessons learned from these situations. How can we prepare for more demanding moments, really focus on prevention and changing habits? Choosing who leads us is one of the most important steps in this process. When we are all better aware that there is a time before these moments of crisis, we all win: people, organizations and society.
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