News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
If the threat of storms tonight has you nervous, do not be ashamed.
A local counselor said it is very natural to be concerned after last week’s tornado, even for those not directly affected by the tornado.
Local counselor Selena Stewart said it is normal for disasters to affect an adult’s mental health. She said individuals should seek counseling.
“We as counselors are expecting that there is more people who are affected by anxiety and depression and trauma symptoms,” Stewart said. “We are here to take care of your needs and help you work through them.”
Stewart said adults personally affected could expect short term symptoms. These include intrusive thoughts, lack of concentration and abnormal sleeping patterns.
“When it does persist overtime, then that is when it becomes something that should be addressed in a counseling session,” Stewart said. “At that point, it is not acute. It is something that is not short term and can develop into something that is more long term.”
If adults experience symptoms for two to six months, Stewart said they should seek professional help.
“Like anything else, this is about taking care of you and doing what is best for you,” Stewart said. “And helping you have the best quality of life that you can have. There is no shame in talking to a counselor.”
Stewart said there are free counseling sessions available for the general public at the Cookeville Community Center.
