Symptoms
You may be worried and confused by some of the physical and emotional reactions you can experience. Although these reactions can be distressing and uncomfortable, they are part of a normal stress reaction to a traumatic event
Physically you might experience:
- Bad dreams or trouble sleeping
- Poor appetite
- Nausea
- Headache
- Easily startled
- Chills or tremors
- Extreme tiredness or fatugue
Emotionally you might experience
- Anxiety Agitation
- Panic
- Feeling overwhelmed / out of control
- Emotional outbursts
- Persistent or nagging memories of the event
- Poor memory
Ways for family members and friends to help
- Listen carefully
- Spend time with the traumatized person but allow him or her some space
- Reassure them that they are safe and try to help with everyday tasks
- Be there... tell them you want to understand
- Don't take their anger personally
- Realize that it may take time
- Seek help if you feel it's needed
Reducing the effects
Everyone copes with stress differently. You probably already have some idea of the positive ways you can deal with stress of a traumatic event. Whatever works for you is fine. You should avoid the use of alcohol or drugs during this time. They only numb emotions and make matters more complicated in the long run
Things to try:- Exercise alternated with relaxing
- Keep busy, maintain a normal schedule
- Read out, talk to people
- Get plenty of rest
- Eat regular meals (even if you don't feel like it)
- Do things you enjoy - you deserve it
- Don't fight reoccurring thoughts or flash backs - they should decrease with time
- Remember that help is always available
- Attend a debriefing