Module 3: Family Conversation Topics

Starting these conversations can feel hard—especially when everyone is already emotional or overwhelmed. It can seem like talking will only make things worse. But often, this is precisely when it matters most to gently open the door to feelings like fear, anger, and sadness after a disaster.

Don’t be alarmed if someone cries, gets angry, or even goes quiet. These are all normal ways people respond when big emotions surface. There isn’t one “right” reaction, and there’s no need to fix or stop what comes up. The goal isn’t to make everyone feel better—it’s to let feelings be expressed and shared.

Talking about what happened helps people feel less alone and less stuck.

Here are some simple conversation starters you can use to help begin those discussions, at whatever pace feels right for your family.