We received a question from a family member of an individual with Down syndrome who is anxious and fearful of bad weather, particularly thunderstorms. Thunder, lightning, strong winds, heavy rain, hail, and other weather phenomena can be a source of anxiety and fear for some individuals with Down syndrome. We have shared a list of tips for managing anxiety during storms below.
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It can be helpful for some individuals to make a plan for the next time there is a storm.
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Questions to answer in the plan could include: Where will I go during the storm? What will I do during the storm? What will I do if the storm happens during the middle of the night? Who can I ask for help?
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The individual could also create a "storm kit" with flashlights, a comforting item, activities to stay busy, etc.
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When a storm starts, reassure the individual. Remind them that the storm will pass.
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If seeing the storm is distressing, close the window blinds or move into a room without windows.
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If hearing the storm is distressing, try wearing ear plugs to reduce the noise. You can also try listening to music or watching a TV show or movie (with or without headphones) to reduce the noise.
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Consider using sensory strategies to help the individual calm down. These strategies could include using a weighted product such as a blanket, doing joint compression, or squeezing a stress ball, among many others.
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Encourage the individual to do calming activities such as taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or stretching/doing yoga. We have several visuals in our Healthy Ways to Manage Stress article.
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Ask the individual what would make them feel better. Encourage the individual to do an activity such as coloring, watching TV or a movie, listening to music, reading, doing an exercise video or other indoor exercise, working on a puzzle, playing with a pet, or performing household chores. A list with more ideas is available in our Activities You Can Do at Home article.
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Avoid watching weather reports on TV or following weather updates on phones, tablets, or computers.
If these strategies do not provide relief, consider scheduling an assessment with a healthcare or mental health provider to explore other therapies to reduce anxiety.