Trauma Chaplain Offers Critical Guidance for Disaster Recovery

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. - March 17, 2025 - PRLog -- GERTON, NC – As communities across the East Coast and the South battle the devastating effects of hurricanes, tornadoes, and historic flooding, nationally certified trauma chaplain Emma M. Churchman, MDiv, offers essential guidance for those still in the midst of crisis.

With entire towns submerged, homes destroyed, and millions facing displacement, the emotional and psychological toll of these disasters is as severe as the physical destruction. Churchman, who survived the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Helene, knows firsthand the mental and emotional challenges of enduring a prolonged disaster. In her book, The Deep End of Hope, she shares three critical steps for finding stability and resilience when the storm hasn't passed yet.

Step 1: Accept the Uncertainty
Natural disasters shatter our sense of control. Churchman, also the creator of a Trauma Recovery Certification program, stresses that the first step is recognizing that fear, grief, and uncertainty are normal responses. "You don't have to suppress your emotions to be strong," she says. "Allowing yourself to feel even when answers are unknown creates emotional resilience."

Step 2: Community is Survival
In disaster zones, connection is not just comforting, it's lifesaving. Churchman's Appalachian town survived weeks of isolation after Hurricane Helene by depending on one another. "The instinct to go it alone can be overwhelming, but healing happens through community," she explains. "Let yourself receive help. Check in on others. Survival is a collective effort."

Step 3: Find Moments of Stability in the Chaos
While disasters disrupt everything, even the smallest routines can restore a sense of normalcy. "Drinking a cup of coffee at the same time each day, checking in with a friend, or taking deep breaths before sleeping, these tiny actions help your nervous system process trauma in real time," Churchman advises.

A Message of Resilience for the Nation
With extreme weather events increasing in frequency and intensity, Churchman's message is clear: Resilience begins before the rebuilding. "You don't have to wait until the disaster is over to start healing," she says.
Her book, The Deep End of Hope, explores what it means to navigate trauma, survival, and transformation. A portion of proceeds from the book will support Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS), a nonprofit dedicated to rebuilding communities affected by natural disasters.

The Deep End of Hope is available now at major retailers and online bookstores.
For interviews, review copies, or more information, please contact:
EmmaChurchman.com (https://www.EmmaChurchman.com)