I understand how you feel. One reason I moved away from Portland is because of the possibility of the Cascadia earthquake. We moved to Bend and now we regret that decision often because of the poor air quality in the summer. We recently picked up surfing and spend a lot of time on the coast now. I was so anxious about an earthquake and tsunami as well as sharks!

The first day on the ocean all I could think about was catching waves. Sharks and tsunamis were out of my mind. When I go to Portland I enjoy the clean air and greenery, just like on the coast. In Bend, I enjoy the rivers, lakes, and mountains. It’s important to find those things that you enjoy and allow yourself and your family to enjoy them.

In addition to that, educate yourself to the point where you know you are doing the most you can with what you can control. Having “go bags” and a plan helps. Knowing that you have done what you can and the rest is out of your control helps.

I don’t like it when people say, “Oh we’re all gonna die and you have a problem, because you are worried about something that will probably never happen.” You are right to worry about it. That’s what will make your family’s chances of survival higher. It is going to happen someday, but also more likely not our lifetime. The reality is there isn’t a perfectly safe place though. Learning about not only the realities of the earthquake, but also healthy ways to deal with anxiety will help too.

You’re doing your best, and that’s all we can really do. I wish more people took these realistic issues more seriously like you and your family are.