Tips to help those with storm anxiety

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — How serious is storm anxiety? One local doctor says it is a growing concern across the state.

With this storm season throwing everything at us so far, it's been a dangerous couple of months for those who suffer high storm anxiety.

According to a study by Ball State University, around 85% of people suffer increased anxiety during severe weather.

With Oklahoma being a top state for severe weather, Dr. Melinda Cail says it is important to do everything you can to help yourself remain calm.

"I find that storm anxiety seems to be a very common one around here," Dr. Cail, Physician with Primary Health Partners said. "Weather is completely out of our hands, and so there's not anything that we can do to control what happens."

The driving force behind storm anxiety is not knowing the outcome and not being able to do much to change it.

However, Dr. Cail says there are multiple ways to get ahead of storm anxiety.

"One of the best things that just everyday people can do is know that you have a plan in place and know where you're going to go," Dr. Cail said.

"If you have medications, make sure that you have a go bag," Dr. Cail said. "If you have valuables that are just precious to you and you want to take them with, have them in a bag right by the door that way you can grab them on your way out and have your plan in place and practice that."

She also says if it is possible, don't go through these events alone.

"Ask your friends and family if you don't want to go through this by yourself," Dr. Cail said. "Say hey cousin, can I come hang out at your house? Or, if you have a good friend or someone else in your support system, ask them if you can come hang out with them so that you're not going through it alone."

Dr. Cail adds that if you have severe storm anxiety, to also reach out to a doctor or therapist for help.

They understand that severe weather is scary to go through, but you are not alone, and help is out there.