How to offer comforting words during a natural disaster
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Finding the right words to say after a natural disaster can be tough. Explore thoughtful ways to communicate and offer support to loved ones when it’s needed most.
Natural disasters can change someone’s life in an instant. One minute someone is going about their daily routine, and the next minute their life is in total upheaval. Whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, earthquake, tornado, or flood, these events often leave communities shattered and people and families struggling to cope with the destruction of their homes, schools, and other places they loved.
In these moments when the pain and loss are so big, it can be tough to find the right words to say. You could worry about possibly saying the wrong thing or maybe you’re not sure how to offer support. These fears could stop you from doing anything at all. This is normal, by the way.
No matter what, it’s important to remember that trying to comfort and support someone after a natural disaster is never about having the perfectly crafted phrase or supportive message. It’s simply about showing that you care and that you have empathy. Your words can provide a sense of hope, connection, and reassurance when it’s needed most. Here’s some guidance on where to start.
Why words of comfort and support can help after a natural disaster
When natural disasters strike, it can be tempting to try to console someone by saying, “it’s just stuff.” but oftentimes that “stuff” equates to someone’s entire life, work, family history, or identity. The total loss of places, memories, and even loved ones, can feel overwhelming and cause serious emotional damage.
People affected by these events may experience a wide range of emotions, from fear and sadness to shock and confusion. And the effects can be long-lasting and may even result in mental health challenges and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
While words alone can’t fix everything, they can bring comfort and strength to someone facing a difficult situation. Sometimes, just knowing that someone cares is the most powerful support of all.
Here’s how your words can make a difference, plus a couple examples of what to say:
Validate emotions: When you acknowledge someone’s pain, it can help to say something like, “I’m so sorry for what you’re going through.” This can help them feel seen and understood.
Ease loneliness: Supportive messages like, “You’re not alone. We are going to get through this together.” This can remind them that they have people who care about them in their lives.
Offer hope: Sharing encouragement can help someone feel that recovery is possible, even when things seem overwhelming and feel hopeless.
Guide toward resources: Suggesting shelters, food banks, or counseling services can help them navigate the recovery process. You can also help them with calling insurance companies or contractors and even offer hands-on support, too.
Provide stability: Simple, kind words create a sense of connection and reassurance in uncertain times.
Messages of encouragement that truly make a difference in a disaster
Finding the right words to say to someone during or after a natural disaster can feel overwhelming. You might wonder how to bring comfort without overstepping or worry about accidentally saying the wrong thing and making the situation worse.
We get it. But the truth is, you don’t need to have the perfect words. What matters most is that your message comes from a place of sincerity and compassion and that you show up and offer a helping hand however you’re able.
Here are some examples of things you can say that will make a huge difference for someone who is going through challenging times.
Acknowledge their experience
Acknowledging someone’s experience with kind words can show them that you recognize their pain and see what they’re going through. It also validates their feelings and lets them know that it’s okay to feel frustrated or upset.
You might say: “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you, but I want you to know that I’m here for you.”
This kind of statement shows empathy without trying to fix the situation, which is often what people need most.
💙 Sharpen your listening skills and make others truly feel heard in this Supportive Listening session with Jay Shetty.
Offer hope and encouragement
Words of hope and encouragement can remind someone that brighter days are ahead, even when things feel hopeless. But try to avoid empty platitudes like “Everything will be okay.”
You can share messages like: “You’re so strong, and I know you’ll get through this, even if it doesn’t feel that way right now.”
These types of messages don’t minimize their pain, but, instead, focus on providing strength and optimism.
Express your support
Sometimes, the best way to help is to let someone know you’re there for them, no matter what. Offer your support in a way that feels genuine and open.
You could say: “I’m here for you, whether you need to talk, vent, or just have some company.”
When offering support, avoid vague statements like, “Let me know if you need anything.” So often when people are grieving or in crisis they don’t know what they need, or feel too overwhelmed to ask for it. Instead, be specific about how you can help, like, “Can I bring you some groceries?” or, “Do you need help making calls to your insurance company?”
Share simple, heartfelt messages
Sometimes, short and heartfelt messages can mean the most. These are great when you don’t know the person well or want to keep things concise.
You might say: “You’re in my thoughts during this terrible time.”
Even a quick text or handwritten note with one of these messages can brighten someone’s day and remind them they’re supported.
Focus on their resilience
If you are close with the person, you might gently remind them of their resilience. But be sure to go easy and avoid pressuring them to feel strong if they’re struggling.
You could say: “I know you’re capable of walking through this one step at a time, even though it’s incredibly hard and messy. I’m here to help.”
Remember, the goal is to encourage without adding stress. Let them know it’s okay to feel vulnerable, and that their strength isn’t defined by how they handle every moment.
Encourage them to take their time
Grief and recovery don’t follow a set timeline, and it’s important to remind your loved one that they don’t need to rush the healing process. (Here are five ways to help a grieving friend.)
You could say: “Take all the time you need to process everything. There’s no right or wrong way to feel right now.”
Remind them that it’s okay (and normal) if things all feel messy and overwhelming and that you’ll be here to help, no matter how long it takes.
💙 Listen to the Understanding Grief session to learn how you can show up for a friend going through the grief process.
What not to say to someone after a natural disaster
While there aren’t any perfect words to say to someone after a natural disaster, there are some areas you should try to steer clear of. Statements that come across as dismissive or minimize their experience can make the person feel more alone, even if they come from a well-intentioned place.
Here’s a closer look at what not to say when comforting someone in the aftermath of a disaster.
1. Don’t downplay their experience to make them feel better: Minimizing what they’re going through, even unintentionally, can make them feel misunderstood or dismissed. Avoid phrases like:
“At least you’re safe. That’s what matters most.”
“It’s just stuff — things can be replaced.”
2. Don’t offer unsolicited advice: Even if you think you know what might help, now is not the time to give advice unless it’s specifically requested. Instead, let them take the lead in sharing what they need. Focus on listening rather than offering solutions, and avoid phrases like:
“You should focus on staying busy. It’ll help you feel better.”
“Try not to think about it too much.”
3. Avoid platitudes or clichés: While phrases like “time heals all wounds,” might feel comforting in theory, they often come across as dismissive or hollow. Here are some examples to avoid:
“This will make you stronger.”
“Everything happens for a reason.”
4. Refrain from making it about you: While it’s natural to want to connect through shared experiences, avoid shifting the focus onto your own stories.
“When I went through something similar, I…”
“I totally understand what you’re going through because I…”
5. Don’t compare their situation to someone else’s: It might be tempting to offer perspective by mentioning someone who had it worse, but this approach can feel dismissive and even competitive. Avoid statements like:
“I know someone who went through this same thing, and they bounced back really quickly.”
“Don’t worry. This is nothing compared to [another tough situation].”
6. Avoid trying to force them to focus on solutions: In the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, it’s natural for people to feel overwhelmed. They may not be ready to think about immediate or long-term solutions. Be sure to avoid comments like:
“Do you know what you’re going to do next?”
“You’ll definitely bounce back. You just need to [insert suggestion].”
7. Don’t question their emotions or reactions: Everyone processes trauma differently, and survivors may experience a wide range of emotions, from anger to despair to numbness. Avoid statements that judge or question how they’re coping:
“Why are you so upset? You’re safe now.”
“You’re lucky it wasn’t worse. Why are you so stressed?”
8. Don’t make it about lessons learned, positive thinking, or silver linings: While reflection and growth can come from difficult experiences, it’s unhelpful to suggest this in the middle of someone’s pain. Avoid saying things like:
“You’ll look back on this one day and see it as a blessing in disguise.”
“This will teach you what’s really important in life.”
Comforting words during a natural disaster FAQs
What can I say to someone going through a natural disaster?
When someone is experiencing a natural disaster, the most important thing to show is empathy and support. Start by acknowledging their situation and the difficulty they’re facing. You can say something like, “I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you.” This validates their feelings and lets them know you care.
Offer them some reassurance by saying something like, “You’re not alone. I’m here to help you in any way I can.” It may also be helpful to focus on their immediate needs or feelings. Do this without minimizing their experience as best you can. Definitely avoid clichés or platitudes and, instead, speak from the heart.
If possible, offer specific help for things they need. For example, you might say, “I’d love to bring over some cleanup supplies. What do you need most right now?” This shows that your support is not just verbal but also practical, which can make a big difference during a crisis.
How to express sympathy for a natural disaster?
When expressing sympathy for someone during a natural disaster, show genuine care and understanding for what they’re going through. Begin with a heartfelt message like, “I’m deeply sorry for what’s happened to you. I can imagine this is very overwhelming.” Recognizing their pain demonstrates that you respect their feelings and the gravity of the experience.
Try offering messages of solidarity like, “I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’m here to support you however I can.” These types of reminders can help assure them that people care about them. Try to keep your message simple and be sure to avoid making comparisons to other disasters or other people’s experiences. You don’t want to accidentally be dismissive.
If it’s appropriate, offer to help. You might say something like, “If there’s anything you need, I’m here for you. I can bring supplies or be someone for you to talk to.” Even if they don’t take you up on the offer immediately, knowing that help is available can provide comfort. Here are eight more ways to help a friend, especially if their loss is making them feel depressed.
How do I comfort someone after a natural disaster if I’m far away?
If you’re far away, start by reaching out with a heartfelt message. Let them know you’re thinking of them and acknowledge what they’re going through. You can keep it simple and say something like, “I’m so sorry for what you’re experiencing. I wish I could be there, but please know you’re not alone, and I’m here for you.” Stay in touch regularly through calls, texts, or video chats to show that you care and haven’t forgotten about what they’re going through.
Offer practical help from afar by sending them groceries or meal delivery. You can even contribute monetarily if they need it and you’re able. You can also assist by researching local resources, such as shelters or aid programs, and sharing that information with them. Small gestures, like organizing a fundraiser or donating to trusted relief organizations in their area, can go a long way.
Let them know you’ll continue to check in and be there for them as they recover. Even from a distance, consistent communication and thoughtful actions show that you care and are ready to support them however you can.
What are words of encouragement for natural disasters?
When life takes an unexpected turn with a natural disaster, it can feel like the ground beneath us isn’t as steady as we’d like it to be—literally and emotionally. But even in the midst of chaos, there is room for hope, healing, and connection. Let’s take a deep breath together and remember:
You are stronger than the storm you’re facing right now. It might not feel that way in this moment, and that’s okay. Strength isn’t about never feeling scared or overwhelmed; it’s about finding a way to keep moving forward, even when it’s hard. And you don’t have to do it alone—there are people ready to help carry the load with you.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. When everything feels uncertain, it’s natural to experience worry or sadness. The road ahead might be difficult but it’s still a road and each small step forward will bring you closer to better days.
You are not alone. In times of crisis, it’s so easy to feel alone, but there’s always community around you. Whether it’s neighbors, volunteers, or other organizations. Accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness. Instead, it’s a testament to our shared community.
This is a chapter, not the whole book. Yes, a natural disaster is a tough chapter, and maybe it’s one you never wanted to read. Still, it’s also not where your story ends. Be sure to give yourself permission to stay in the moment and sort things out one step at a time. Progress could be slow, but every step forward counts.
When the dust settles, we’ll find that the bonds between us have only grown stronger. Take care of yourself—drink some water, get some rest when you can, and know that rebuilding, both physically and emotionally, is a process we can face together.
What is an inspirational quote for disaster relief?
Sometimes, the simplest words can remind us of the depth of our resilience. Here’s a quote that might help:
“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.” – Helen Keller
These words from Helen Keller can help remind us that while hardship and difficulty is a part of life, resilience is too. Even when things are difficult, there is always the possibility for growth and healing.
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