Easy Anxiety During Disaster Threats; Psychologist: Family Support is Crucial

Family support has an important role in helping someone overcome anxiety caused by disaster threats. Psychologists explain that a family’s understanding and supportive attitude can make a person feel safer when facing stressful situations. According to Ibunda.id psychologist Danti Wulan Manunggal, S.Psi., family can be the first place where someone feels calm when anxiety emerges. Emotional support from loved ones helps a person face the fear that arises from uncertain situations.

She explains that the fear or anxiety someone experiences should not be dismissed or belittled. “Don’t say ‘come on, don’t be afraid’. Instead, say ‘I know you’re scared, I feel it too, but let’s face it together’,” Danti said when contacted by Kompas.com on Sunday (8 March 2026). Such validation can help a person feel understood and accepted.

When family members support one another, an individual will feel they have a place to share their fears and worries. This situation can reduce the mental pressure that arises from uncertainty. Danti explained that environments with strong solidarity typically recover mentally more quickly after facing a crisis situation. Community systems based on mutual assistance, such as sharing information or helping during emergencies, can make residents feel safer.

Families can also create small calming routines to help family members manage their anxiety. According to Danti, simple activities done together can help transform a tense atmosphere into a calmer one. These small habits can become a way for families to support one another when facing situations full of uncertainty. With family support and a strong environment, people living in disaster-prone areas can develop better mental resilience when facing various possible scenarios.