What You May Experience
The following list describes a variety of normal reactions to a traumatic event. You or others may experience some of these in the weeks following the event. These reactions are generally temporary and not of great concern. § Heightened response to loud noises, shouting or crying § Discomfort being alone § Difficulty concentrating and/or deciding what to do next § Strong desire to contact people who are important to you § Feeling sad, scared, angry, irritable, or confused § Difficulty sleeping § Increase or decrease in appetite § Physical discomfort - headaches, stomach aches, sore muscles, etc. § Discomfort being in places that seem unsafe to you § Feeling vulnerable, a loss of control § Feeling exhausted § Difficulty making decisions and thinking creatively § Feeling guilty that others have suffered more than you have § Recall of past traumas or losses § Fear of leaving loved ones or your home § Feeling excited and alive, or empty and depressed, or both intermittently § A reevaluation of your life - what's important; what's not |
What To Do
§ Talk to other people about your experiences, reactions, feelings, etc. § Take it easy - don't push yourself! § Plan extra time to do usual tasks - you may be distracted and not able to function as efficiently as usual. § Reestablish your normal routine as soon as you can do so comfortably - this helps you regain a sense of stability and predictability. § Check to see if your decision-making ability has been impaired (ask for feedback on how you're doing). § Discuss your current emergency plan with significant others and prepare for future crises. § Don't forget to eat and eat "smart" - avoid junk food, excessive sugar, alcohol, and caffeine. § Rest and get some exercise. § Recognize that information about the event can be upsetting as well as helpful § Turn off your radio and television when you start to feel overwhelmed by the news. § If you are having trouble sleeping, listen to soothing music or drink a glass of milk at least a half hour before going to bed. § Reach out to help others - either through volunteer activities, donations of money or supplies, personal support to friends and neighbors. |
Recognize
we may all be on different timetables, so don't expect others to handle things
or be feeling the same way you do or vice versa.
If you have
been busy performing necessary tasks after the event, you may have a delay in
your reactions until after you stop being busy - i.e., a delayed reaction that
is on a different timetable from others.
If you are
feeling overwhelmed seeing a counselor for confidential counseling sessions may
be helpful. Call your healthcare professional
for a referral, or the County Mental Health Department at 408-299-5800
Prepared by County of
Santa Clara in collaboration with ESA, Special Personnel Programs, 299-2186