Having a plan can help ease anxiety that often accompanies extreme weather

Hurricanes, wildfires and other extreme weather events can cause anxiety that lasts even after they're over.

But mental health experts say there are several ways to reduce that stress.

One of the most important ways is to prepare ahead as much as possible and to have a plan for what to do during a disaster.

Sharing fears with supportive people and focusing on facts can also help.

And when the storm passes, there are ways to help restore calm and normalcy by seeking support, returning to routines and helping others.

When talking to children, it's important to be honest but calm.