LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Severe weather can bring back some bad memories or lingering anxiety for those who have experienced similar storms in the past.
It has been almost one year since the tornado that happened on March 31, 2023, and memories of that day along with the chance of storms have had a lot of people on edge.
"There's been some storms I get a little nervous about," said Ronnie Paff, a Walnut Valley resident.
Paff faced a lot of challenges over the past year, and one of the biggest was the tornado on March 31.
Though it is almost one year later, he's just now moving back into his house in Walnut Valley after getting it repaired.
"They took it down to the studs and rebuilt the whole thing. Everything's brand new," Paff explained.
He still holds on to the memories of that day when he took cover in the bathroom as the tornado hit his house. Paff said he plans to stay tuned in to weather alerts in case it happens again.
That's what mental health therapist and owner of Bloom Counseling Services, Molly Bloom, recommends— especially for overnight storms.
"You've checked out the radar, get yourself a good night's sleep, turn on the sound so you can hear if something does go on," she explained.
Bloom said if you're someone who experiences storm-related anxiety, it's important to not forget simple self-care.
"Our GI system is going to let us know if we're feeling anxious. So just take in some healthy foods as you can, drink water, and try to sleep as much as you can. Those basic taking care of yourself things are so important to level out that anxiety and mental health," she described.
She also said that preparing in advance for severe weather can help us feel less stressed as well.
"Where are you going to go If something does happen? If a tornado already came down or anything like that, to keep yourself safe, it's really good to be prepared and to plan," she added.
She also stressed that you shouldn't forget to do the things that bring you joy.
"Maybe you want to watch something funny. Others may have a pet that they're really close to and want to snuggle up with, [have] a good book to read or something like that. Something you enjoy," she said. "Just know that what you're feeling is normal."
Bloom wants to add that if you have trouble shaking off that anxiety, you should try contacting a professional for additional help.