Recovering from a natural disaster can be slow, stressful, and sometimes overwhelming. Here are some additional tips.

1.  Keep short-term and long-term goals in mind. Be realistic about material and labor availabilities. Create a checklist of repairs that can be done quickly and those that may take months to complete.
2. The emotional strain of recovering from a natural disaster can be difficult and very tough to handle alone. Consider personal or family counseling. The Disaster Distress Helpline from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers confidential crisis support, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 1-800-985-5990.
3. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) has programs including grants for basic, critical needs. The Disaster Home Reconstruction Mortgage Program can help you rebuild or buy a new home if you lost it during a disaster. FEMA can also   help rent a temporary place or reimburse hotel expenses for short periods of time.
4. If you’re in a declared emergency zone, think about contacting your state about food assistance under the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) or other programs.
5. Take charge and plan now for any future storms. Re-stock emergency supplies and consider adding hurricane shutters. Create or review your pre-storm plan and make sure you have all the insurance coverages you need.
6. Wildlife and Pests: Hurricane winds and flooding drives pets, snakes, rats, racoons, alligators, and other wild animals from their homes. Both animals and insects will seek shelter in cars, buildings, and trees after a hurricane. Look for entryway points into your home around damaged areas. Seal these areas as soon as possible to help prevent an invasion or pest infestation. Sometimes these animals and lost pets can be badly injured. Use caution when dealing with wild or injured animals. Get treatment for any bites and let the animal control professionals in your area handle the problem. Tip: Use caulk and steel wool to plug holes and help block insects and other pests.
7. Apartment or Condo Dweller:

• • Don’t return to your complex unless local officials say it is safe.
  • Don’t return to your apartment or condo until your complex management or association verifies the building is structurally sound.
  • The management or association is responsible for cleanup of the grounds and other areas outside your apartment.
  • Check your insurance coverage and assess your damage.
  • Ask the apartment management what is covered by their insurance.
  • Have a plan to check on neighbors, especially those that are elderly or confined.