ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — As homeowners work to clean up physical damage left behind by back-to-back hurricanes, the emotional toll is mounting for many.

Licensed clinical social worker Katie Planchard says people are likely to be experiencing disaster fatigue in response to hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“What people might be experiencing is: irritability, trouble enjoying the things that they usually enjoy, they might have sleep disturbance, they might have issues in some of their relationships or going to work and doing the things that they would typically do on a normal basis,” said Planchard, who also serves as Clinic Director at Ellie Mental Health in St. Petersburg.

Homeowners Frank and Carol Lavigna are experiencing some of those emotions.

“This is a lot of stress,” said Frank. “And unfortunately we went through this three times in two years.”

The Lavignas say they have been leaning on their faith to help get them through.

“You just pray and pray that you have the mind of a person who’s in extreme stress to deal with it,” said Carol.

Planchard says identifying support that works is an important part of coping.

“If you have family and friends that you can talk to, make sure that you’re reaching out for that support,” said Planchard. “Reach out to your religious leaders. If you are working with a mental health professional, make sure you are talking with them.”

Planchard also encourages self care.

“Make sure that you’re still meeting your basic needs, try to get good quality sleep, try to stick with your normal routine, try to make sure you’re eating enough meals and getting good nutrition, drinking enough water,” said Planchard.

She adds it is important to stay informed but recommends some will benefit from setting certain limits on exposure to social media or coverage.

To help residents learn more about coping and help the community connect, Ellie Mental Health will offer a disaster relief support group every Monday in November.

“(We’ll) provide some general psycho-education on the mental health impacts of a disaster and what happens afterwards, helping people to establish good coping skills and of course sharing as many resources as we can and helping other people share those resources together,” said Planchard.

The mental health expert adds finding ways to support others in the community can also help the healing and coping process.

Frank Lavigna says he plans to volunteer to help others impacted by the recent storms.

“Because I know what they’re going through, physically, mentally, emotionally,” he said.

Ellie Mental Health can be reached through their website, by phone at 813-508-7866 or by email at EllieFL11801@elliementalhealth.com.