More than six months have passed since Hurricane Ike roared ashore in Texas. By now, most of the debris has been cleared away, construction has begun to rebuild or replace damaged property, and there are less and less 'blue roofs' to be seen dotting the coastline. While many areas along the Gulf Coast of Texas are well on their way to recovery, many residents are just now feeling the effects of the collateral damages caused by Ike.
Hurricane related illnesses are on the rise in the hardest hit areas on the coast. The stress brought on by the losses many people suffered has contributed to anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, insomnia, uncontrolled diabetes, and high cholesterol levels nearing epidemic status. Residents of storm battered areas are finding themselves unable to cope with losing their homes and their lives as they knew them. In fact, the stress has been so great, that several elderly people have died due to some of these conditions brought on by the upset to their lives.
Houston and Galveston area pharmacists are reporting a sharp increase in prescriptions for anti-depressants and sleeping pills. For others, alcohol and food have become the drugs of choice while looking for a way to cope with post-Ike stress.
Doctors with UTMB in Galveston have said that this type of stress is not unusual following a disaster such as a destructive hurricane like Ike, noting that it will take time for people to adjust to new routines. In some cases, where people have had to start their lives over completely from the ground up, a sense of normalcy may take years to achieve.
Experts offer a number of ways to deal with post-Ike stress, most of which are similar to those used in warding off depression. Residents who believe they may experiencing this disorder are encouraged to establish a daily routine. Also, interacting with others in similar situations can help with feelings of being alone. Staying active, exercising, and getting involved with a church or family are other ways of coping. Residents should avoid drugs and alcohol and are urged to talk with their doctor any time they feel like they are unable to function or need intervention.
The Atlantic Hurricane season begins on June 1 and lasts through November 30. The peak months for hurricane activity are October through November, when ninety six percent of major hurricanes occur.
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