Earthquake Resource Guide

Brief facts

• [Location of event and date of occurrence]

• [Richter scale measurement]

• [Impacted areas – specific damage]

If someone is in immediate danger : Call 911

Tip sheets

• What Not to Do During an Earthquake

• Things to Pack in a Go Bag

• Reducing the Intensity of Stress

• Coping With Uncertainty

• Children’s Common Reactions to Disaster

• Steps To Take if Your House Is Damaged or Destroyed by a Natural Disaster

Tips for managing common reactions

It’s common to experience shock, sadness, anger, fear, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, or feeling “on edge.” These steps can help:

In the moment (when you feel overwhelmed)

• Ground yourself: Name 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste.

• Slow your breathing: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6–8 (repeat 5–10 times).

• Reduce stimulation: Step away from screens, noise, and crowded spaces if you can.

• Drink water / eat something simple: Stabilizing your body helps stabilize emotions.

Over the next few days

• Limit repeated exposure to news and videos. It can intensify distress and make recovery harder.

• Keep a basic routine: wake/sleep, meals, movement, work breaks.

• Move your body: even a 10–15-minute walk helps reduce stress hormones.

• Lean on connection: talk with someone you trust, even briefly.

• Sleep support: reduce caffeine late in the day, keep lights low at night, and use calming audio if needed.

If you’re supporting someone else

• Check in directly: “How are you doing today?” then listen.

• Offer choices: “Do you want to talk, take a walk, or just sit quietly?”

• Avoid forcing processing: some people need time before they can talk about it.

• Encourage help early if symptoms are escalating.

Signs it may be time to reach out for professional support

• Distress is getting worse or not improving after a few days

• You feel unsafe, hopeless, or unable to function

• Sleep disruption is severe or persistent

• You’re using alcohol/drugs to cope

• You’re experiencing panic attacks, nightmares, or intrusive images

• You’re having thoughts of self-harm

If any of the above are true, it can help to reach out now: 988, Crisis Text Line, or a Care Advocate.

Support resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or Text: 988
https://988lifeline.org/

Crisis Text Line

Text: HOME to 741741
https://www.crisistextline.org/

Local American Red Cross Locator - Enter your zip code to locate the nearest American Red Cross assistance site.

2-1-1 Emergency Resources - Available 24/7/365. Dial 211 from a landline or a mobile device.

SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline

Call: 1-800-985-5990
Text: TalkWithUs to 66746
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/disaster-distress-helpline

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Quick language you can use

• You’re not alone — support is available.

• Strong reactions are common after stressful events.

• If you need support right now, call or text 988.