Parents Urged to Provide Safe, Nurturing Spaces to Help Children Cope After Hurricane

Regional Clinical Psychologist at the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA), Dr. Alcon Barnett, is encouraging parents to create stable, nurturing environments to help their children recover emotionally and psychologically from the trauma of Hurricane Melissa and its aftermath.

Speaking in a recent interview with JIS News, Dr. Barnett noted that many children have been affected psychologically, physically and behaviourally, with some likely to experience learning difficulties in the short or long-term.

“Each child reacts differently to traumatic experiences. Some may experience short-term distress while others may have longer-term effects. Much depends on the age of the child, their experiences, and how parents respond,” he noted.

He advised that one of the most important steps parents can take is to create a sense of safety and stability, even amid ongoing challenges.

“Parents should try to provide food, shelter and a nurturing environment where the child feels safe,” Dr. Barnett said.

“Some children may complain of stomach aches or other physical issues, while others may act out behaviourally. Instead of rushing to punishment or reacting with anger, parents should try to understand the feelings behind the behaviour,” he said.

Dr. Barnett stressed the importance of re-establishing routines to help children regain a sense of normalcy.

“Create structure and predictability. Have regular bedtimes, waking times and chores. These routines help children feel secure when everything around them seems uncertain,” he pointed out.

He referenced a study conducted after Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, which found that approximately 72 per cent of children showed signs of resilience and recovery two to three years later.

“That research shows that most children will recover once they receive adequate support. Children are generally resilient, but they need help to process their experiences,” he said.

On the issue of learning loss, Dr. Barnett encouraged collaboration between parents, teachers and schools to help children return to their academic rhythm.

“Parents can start small, even half an hour of reading or schoolwork at home each day makes a difference,” he advised.

“For those without electricity, use daylight hours for study time. The idea is to gently reintroduce learning, especially for students preparing for Primary Exit Profile exams or external exams,” he suggested.

Dr. Barnett further reminded parents to take care of their own mental health, noting that children often mirror the emotions and behaviors of adults.

“Kids are very impressionable. Parents are under pressure too, but they need to seek support if they’re overwhelmed. The Ministry of Health’s Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline at 888-639-5433 is available, and assistance is also offered through local clinics and churches,” he pointed out.

He implored parents to monitor their children for signs of drastic behaviour changes, talk of self-harm, or persistent withdrawal, and to seek professional help immediately if such symptoms appear.

Above all, Dr. Barnett encouraged families to stay connected and hopeful.

“Keep children busy. Let them play, draw, or engage in simple creative activities. Limit their exposure to negative images and emphasise hope. Recovery is a community effort, and with patience and care, our children will bounce back,” he assured.