Reports of record-high water levels flooding communities or water breaking through sandbag barriers or dikes are enough to create stress and anxiety for anyone living or working nearby. The anticipation of destruction created by flooding can summon up feelings of worry, fear, anger and uncertainty.

You can take steps today to reduce stressful emotions in the midst of the flood-related chaos by strengthening your resilience. Resilience is the process of adapting while facing adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or other sources of stress. By strengthening your resilience, you will be better able to persevere through the challenges posed by flooding of your home and community.

Here are some ways you can build emotional resilience and strengthen your sense of control during this difficult time.