What technique can be effectively used to mitigate stress among shelter residents?

Listening to victims tell and retell their stories about the disaster is an effective technique for mitigating stress among shelter residents because it provides them with an opportunity to express their emotions and process their experiences. This sharing of stories can help individuals make sense of what they have gone through, allowing them to validate their feelings and experiences. It creates a supportive environment, fostering connections among residents who may be facing similar challenges. This form of narrative therapy is beneficial because it encourages emotional release, helps build resilience, and can even promote healing as individuals feel heard and understood.

In contrast, encouraging residents to stay silent may lead to increased feelings of isolation and frustration, as people may feel they have no outlet for their emotions. Implementing strict schedules could create additional pressure and anxiety, as residents may feel overwhelmed by the demands of adhering to rigid routines in an already stressful environment. Offering free medical services, while important for physical health, may not address the emotional and psychological needs of residents, which are crucial in a disaster recovery context.