The DANA that has devastated the Valencian Community and other parts of Spain in recent days has left significant damage to infrastructure, homes, educational spaces and, unfortunately, has taken the lives of hundreds of people. Managing this tragedy is a challenge not only for those who have experienced it firsthand, but also for anyone who has followed its evolution through the media and social networks. In the case of younger children and adolescents, they may even have more emotional difficulties in understanding this situation, so it is vital that they have the necessary information and resources to be able to manage it emotionally as best as possible.
An emotional management guide for those affected by DANA
A group of psychologists from different fields has worked on the development of the 'Psychosocial support guide for teaching staff: responses after DANA in the Valencian Community', which aims to help teachers manage the emotions of their students in the return to schools after this event and which you can download for free at that same link. Some of its key points are:
What emotional reactions are normal after a disaster?
In this first section, it is explained to teachers that, after a traumatic situation, it is common for students to feel fear, anxiety, sadness or confusion. Additionally, others may experience anger, shame, or guilt. Some may even show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How to detect if a student needs help?
Some students may show changes in their behavior or manifest certain signs of stress, among which are fear or fear that the event will happen again; lack or loss of appetite; loss of interest in daily activities that they previously liked… The guide highlights that it is very important not to immediately interpret these feelings and situations as signs of a serious psychological problem: these are normal reactions to abnormal situations and can improve over time. However, if they persist for a prolonged period and cause significant discomfort to the student, it is advisable to seek professional help.
How to make it easier for students to express their emotions?
In a situation like the one experienced with DANA, it is essential to offer a safe and reliable space where students feel comfortable expressing their feelings. To this end, the guide advises education professionals to offer a space based on trust; Let them know that they can count on their teachers. In addition, it is important to maintain a close posture, a soft and affectionate gaze, as well as showing respect, listening with an open and compassionate mind, without passing judgment. Along with this, psychologists highlight the importance of facilitating assertive communication: speaking calmly and allowing students to express their emotions and concerns without rushing.
What to do if a student does not want to talk about what happened?
Another very important point to keep in mind is that after traumatic situations, there are many people who may not want to share their pain, perhaps due to lack of trust, feelings of guilt, anxiety or emotional numbness. Therefore, it is vital that teachers learn to also manage this reality. The guide outlines how to act in this case: you must respect the silence of the students, without pressuring them to speak, as this can make them close down even more. Creating a safe space, in which empathy and willingness to listen are encouraged, is another key issue. In addition, you can choose alternative expression options with activities such as drawing, writing…
How to stay calm in moments of anxiety in the classroom?
Staying calm and conveying serenity in the classroom is essential, since students often perceive and reflect the emotions of the adults around them. The guide proposes various techniques and resources that can help. For example, perform group breathing techniques: such as the 4-7-8 technique (inhale on 4, hold on 7, and exhale on 8). Another idea is to use a calm and comforting voice in order to avoid giving abrupt or hasty instructions, and maintain a relaxed posture. In addition, it encourages reinforcing the feeling of security among students. As? Letting them know that they are in a safe space and that they can rely on the support of the group and the teachers. This stability will help reduce their anxiety as they sit in an environment where they can relax and focus on the present.
How to listen to and validate students' emotions?
Active listening is essential for students to feel that their emotions and thoughts are respected and understood. Therefore, the guide suggests that after the student has spoken, it is possible to repeat what he said in his own words to ensure that what he wanted to express has been correctly understood and to show him that attention was paid to him. It is also advisable to allow emotions to be expressed freely, so that if a student cries or shows frustration, do not immediately interrupt or try to 'fix' the situation. Simply being there and showing that their experience is respected and understood can be a huge relief to them.
How to face the uncertainty of the future?
In crisis situations, it is common for students to wonder what will happen next and if the catastrophe could happen again. Therefore, teachers must focus on the present, explaining that although we cannot control the future, we can do things in the present to feel better. Maintaining a routine is also vital, and setting small daily goals can help reduce feelings of uncertainty; as well as inviting students to express their concerns and allowing each one to share their thoughts about the future. At these times, psychologists advise avoiding phrases like “that will never happen.” Instead, they propose responding with empathy, saying something like, “It's natural for you to worry about that,” followed by a reminder that together you can address whatever comes, strengthening your ability to cope and promoting resilience.
How to promote self-care among teachers?
Along with the mental health of the students, it is also important to take into account the emotional situation of the teaching team. The guide aims to promote the importance of rest and self-care; avoid constant exposure to news or social media about the disaster; encourage colleagues to limit time spent on the news and focus on the present; and offer spaces for mutual support.
Where to find help and specific support resources?
Experts recommend, first of all, taking advantage of the resources offered by the educational center itself. But, if you need more specialized support, it is vital to seek external psychological help. To this end, there are professionals trained in emergencies, grief and trauma trained to offer personalized support in this process to those who need it.
