Tornado Recovery in St. Louis: Recognizing Trauma and Knowing When to Seek Help

In recent weeks, several tornadoes have torn through the St. Louis area, leaving behind not just physical destruction—but emotional scars as well. Whether you were directly impacted or experienced the anxiety of sheltering in place, it’s common to feel unsettled after such a sudden and frightening event.

At SANA Psychiatry, we want to acknowledge the trauma our community is facing and provide guidance on what emotional responses are normal, when to seek psychiatric support, and how to access both professional and self-directed resources for healing.

Signs You May Be Experiencing Trauma

After a natural disaster, trauma doesn’t always look dramatic—it can be quiet and internal. If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the following, it could be a sign of emotional distress or trauma:

• Replaying the storm in your mind (intrusive memories or nightmares)

• Avoiding reminders (weather alerts, rain sounds, basements)

• Feeling jumpy or “on edge” all the time

• Sudden mood swings or emotional numbness

• Trouble sleeping or eating

• Headaches, nausea, or fatigue with no medical cause

• Difficulty concentrating or getting back to your routine

• Withdrawing from family or friends

• Panic or fear at the sound of sirens or storms

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These symptoms may resolve on their own in the days following a disaster. But if they persist beyond 2-4 weeks or begin interfering with your ability to function, it may be time to seek professional help.

Coping Strategies You Can Use at Home

While professional care is important for many, there are also effective, evidence-informed ways to support yourself or your children at home:

1. Establish Routines

Routines offer a sense of safety and predictability. Try to return to regular sleep and mealtimes as soon as possible.

2. Limit Media Exposure

Frequent news or weather updates can worsen anxiety. Check for important alerts, but avoid constant scrolling.

3. Talk About It—Gently

Whether it’s with a friend, family member, or child, talking about your feelings in a safe space can reduce isolation and anxiety.

4. Grounding Techniques

Try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise to manage anxiety:

• 5 things you can see

• 4 things you can touch

• 3 things you can hear

• 2 things you can smell

• 1 thing you can taste

  
  

5. Practice Breathing Exercises

Simple deep breathing (inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 6) can reduce physical symptoms of stress.

6. Move Your Body

Gentle movement—walking, stretching, yoga—can reduce the physiological effects of stress.

Local Resources for Tornado Recovery in St. Louis

If you need immediate support or are looking for additional community resources, here are some helpful options:

🧡 Disaster Distress Helpline

Free 24/7 support for those experiencing emotional distress from a disaster:Call or text 1-800-985-5990

🏠 United Way 2-1-1

Call 2-1-1 or visit 211helps.org for shelter information, food banks, counseling services, and emergency assistance.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Behavioral Health Response (BHR) – St. Louis

Crisis support and mobile outreach available 24/7:Call 314-469-6644 or 1-800-811-4760www.bhrstl.org

🧸 Saint Louis Crisis Nursery

For families with young children who need emergency respite or support:314-768-3201www.crisisnurserykids.org

When to Seek Psychiatric Help

If trauma symptoms persist for several weeks, worsen over time, or interfere with work, relationships, or daily life—it’s time to reach out. Symptoms like panic attacks, sever

e anxiety, hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm should never be ignored.

At SANA Psychiatry, we provide compassionate, personalized care for trauma, anxiety, and depression. We offer both therapy and medication support, tailored to your needs.

We’re here to help.If you’re ready to talk, book an appointment at👉 www.sana-psychiatry.com