According to the Centers for Disease Control, traumatic events are "marked by a sense of horror, helplessness, serious injury, or the threat of serious injury or death." These symptoms usually go away after a month or so, but if they last beyond three months, you should seek assistance.

Remember that those around you are suffering, too. Your family and employees are dealing with their own issues. They may be looking to you, as a caregiver, to provide assurance that the situation is under control, and that things eventually will return to some level of normalcy. Be honest about what has happened and what can be expected during the recovery process. Depend on each other for support.

Substance abuse rises after a major incident. The use of over-the-counter stimulants to offset fatigue is common. Survivors also are tempted to turn to tranquilizers or alcohol as a source of artificial comfort. During difficult times, medical professionals often are asked to provide the prescriptions necessary to secure these items. You can deny these requests firmly, but understand that person's underlying needs. Take time to offer comfort and withhold judgment.

Take care of your own physical well-being.

• Try to limit your intake of caffeine.
• Make sure you get enough rest.
• Control your diet and nutritional intake.

Disaster victims go through all of the six stages of grief—shock or denial, depression, anger, acceptance, emotional release and hope for a better future. Take time to nurture yourself and others. Don’t hesitate to ask for or accept help.

Visit the Health and Wellness section of ADA.org to read more.

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Thank you to the Florida Dental Association and Florida Dental Health Foundation for providing significant contributions to this content, which were funded in part from the American Dental Association Foundation .