CHEHALIS -- Nearly a month has passed since the wind damage and flooding caused by last December's storm swept through Southwest Washington, destroying property and disrupting lives.

But only now, many storm victims are realizing the full weight of their losses, and starting to experience emotional reactions to the storm and its aftermath.

Washington State's Disaster Outreach Services has trained staff to provide residents, organizations and businesses with information, resources and referrals that will help manage these recovery efforts. So far, nearly 50 outreach workers have served more than 650 residents in storm-affected counties throughout Southwest Washington.

"People may experience a range of feelings – from frustration to anger to despair – after a disaster. We want them to know that this is 'normal' under the circumstances," says Karie Castleberry, M.A., Disaster Mental Health Coordinator for the Department of Social and Health Services and Administrative Director for the Disaster Outreach Services.

"Most people will be able to cope and deal with their recovery efforts with the support of friends, family and neighbors. But, if you are feeling stuck in your situation and need help moving forward, our outreach staff can assist. We're here to help problem solve and provide emotional first aid at the same time!"

Castleberry says children, the elderly and people already experiencing emotional difficulties are particularly vulnerable right now. But the Disaster Outreach workers can make connections to needed services and solve the underlying problems causing emotional distress.

For the past three weeks, outreach workers have been helping storm victims by going door-to-door and responding to requests from businesses, schools, churches, and other community organizations.

"We've seen a lot in three shorts weeks," says Outreach Team Leader Monica Olivas, one of ten counselors serving Lewis County. "Those who have had their homes condemned are finding it difficult, if not impossible, to find affordable local housing. Many are still in motels waiting for their apartments to be repaired. Others may need help with basic necessities such as food; help with utility costs [to dry out their homes]; or transportation as their car has been lost or damaged beyond repair from the flood.

"Each situation is different. We've been listening to people's needs and helping connect them to resources that will help get them back-on-track as they find a new 'normal' for their lives."

Neighbors, friends, family members and co-workers are often a good source of support for people overwhelmed by their situation during the aftermath of a disaster. Signs of stress, which are normal, may include: trouble concentrating, difficulty makes decisions, withdrawing from others, avoiding activities, a sense of hopelessness, feeling unbalanced, or even staying too busy.

Castleberry says the community may continue to experience these feelings of dissolution over the next several months, and hopes to be able to continue offering the Disaster Outreach Services pending funding until December of 2008. In the meantime, she says that people should take advantage of the services now.

FEMA DEADLINE: Other services that residents should take advantage of immediately include the Federal Emergency Management Administration's (FEMA) flood relief loan applications. The deadline to register with FEMA is February 7, 2008.

"Even if you don't think you are eligible for assistance or you don't think you want a loan right now, you should still register with FEMA," Castleberry said. She said getting the paperwork filed with FEMA before the deadline could keep someone’s options open in the long term.

Disaster Outreach workers also are available to speak to groups, as well as provide individual assistance. For more information, contact the Disaster Outreach Services hot line at 1-800-850-8775.

EDITOR'S NOTE: A free brochure listing other signs of stress, tips for coping and resource phone numbers is available through Disaster Outreach Services by calling 1-800-850-8775.