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Weathering Florida Storms: Managing Anxiety During Hurricane Season

🌪️ Weathering the Storm: Managing Anxiety During Hurricane Season in Florida 🏠

By Hilary Akman, LMHC, LPC | Online Counseling Solutions | Davie, FL

Living in Florida, we know that hurricane season brings more than just wind and rain—it brings emotional turbulence, too. As a licensed therapist in Davie, I’ve supported many clients facing anxiety during storm season. If you’re feeling tense, overwhelmed, or restless, you’re not alone—and there are ways to manage these feelings effectively.

🧠 Why Hurricanes Can Trigger Anxiety

Storms stir up uncertainty, and uncertainty feeds worry. Common emotional and physical symptoms include:

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Irritability or restlessness

  • Feeling panicked at stores

  • Muscle tension and racing thoughts

  • Food scarcity as stores become empty. Usually from fearful people overbuying with an “every man for himself mentality”.

When storms approach, it’s normal to feel out of control. But by taking small, intentional steps—mentally and practically—you can restore a sense of calm and safety.

đź’ˇ Before the Storm: Emotionally and Practically Prepare

1. Prepare your supplies:
Checklists from the City of Davie or major stores like Publix are great tools. Check this Hurricane Preparedness Guide from the Florida Department of Health.

Stock up early on:

  • Water, food, flashlights, batteries

  • Prescriptions and first-aid items

  • Chargers and pet supplies

2. Make evacuation decisions early:
Avoid last-minute stress—decide in advance when and how you’ll leave if needed.

3. Prepare emotionally:

  • Stick to daily routines

  • Limit storm coverage to 1–2 updates/day

  • Use calming tools like prayer, deep breathing, or soothing music

🌀 During the Storm: Stay Present and Grounded

Focus on what you can control. These calming strategies help center your mind:

  • 5-4-3-2-1 grounding: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste

  • Breath work: Inhale 4 counts, exhale 8 counts

  • Connection: Stay in touch with friends or family

  • Spiritual practices: Pray when fear rises—release anxious thoughts to God

🙏 After the Storm: Emotional Recovery

Storms may pass quickly, but the emotional aftermath lingers. It’s okay to feel shaken. What helps:

  • Talk to someone you trust

  • Focus on “the next right step” rather than the full recovery process

  • Return to a daily rhythm—routine brings stability

  • Remind yourself: “Do not be anxious about anything… but in every situation, by prayer and petition… present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

🛠️ Long-Term: Build Resilience Before the Next Storm

  • Practice breathing and calming techniques before you’re anxious

  • Write down your personal coping tools

  • Keep faith-based affirmations or Scripture nearby

  • Consider support from counseling, church groups, or a trusted therapist

As a therapist with years of experience helping clients navigate anxiety, I’ve seen firsthand how preparation—both practical and emotional—can truly calm the storm within.

đź“ž Local and National Resources

  • Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990

  • Broward County 211 Helpline: Call 211 for mental health or shelter info

  • Online Counseling Solutions – Davie, FL: Faith-based and evidence-based therapy available in person and virtually

You don’t need to control the storm—you just need a plan, support, and tools to steady your heart.