When unexpected, traumatic events occur, it is normal to have strong reactions. Sometimes these appear immediately after the event, and sometimes they don’t evidence themselves for several days, weeks, or even months. While unpleasant, these reactions are normal and usually temporary, leaving no long-term effects on the individual experiencing them. The following alterations to your normal state may last from a few days to a few weeks.
Fear
Loss of confidence
Numbness
Uncertainty
Apathy
Sadness
Depression
Excessive worry
Anger
Irritability
Guilt
Grief
Disbelief
Distress
Restlessness
Headaches
Muscle Ache
Digestive distress
Changes in libido
Rapid Breathing*
Chest tightness*
Sleep disturbance
Profuse sweating
Diarrhea
Tachycardia*
Thirst
Easily startled
Trembling hands
Confusion
Disorientation
Distractibility
Impaired memory
Concentration
Reviewing of previous trauma
Intrusive thoughts
Intrusive images
Numbing of responses
Suspiciousness
Nightmares
Hyper-vigilance
Withdrawal
Increase use EtOH
Restless agitation
Impulsive acts
Interpersonal conflicts
Changes in eating, sleeping, sexual behavior
Increased risk taking
Avoidance
Inability to rest
Change in social activity
*Any of these symptoms may indicate the need for medical evaluation.
When in doubt contact your medical provider.
- Remember, you are a normal person experiencing normal reactions to a highly abnormal event.
- While alcohol may temporarily mask the initial symptoms of stress, the use of alcohol or other substances will delay the normal recovery process overall.
- Within the first 24-48 hours periods of moderate physical activity can be very helpful and will help to aid sleep, digestion, and mood regulation.
- Make sure you are eating regularly. The healthier your choices the better you will feel. Increase water consumption and avoid excessive caffeine.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep is one of the most important factors in returning to normal pre-incident functioning. If you experience sleep disturbance for more than two or three days please consult your medical provider or your debriefing clinician.
- Reach out. People do care. Nurture and maintain your relationships by talking; talk is the most healing medicine.
- Maintain as normal a schedule as possible. Returning to activities you’ve previously found engaging or relaxing is a good way to engage the brain in non-trauma focus.
- Talking to your significant other, friends, or trusted associates about what you are experiencing help put the aftermath of a critical incident in perspective. You are not alone.
- Realize that those around you are under stress, too. Give yourself permission to feel rotten but don’t assume that your loved ones know what you are experiencing. Educate them.
- Do make as many daily decisions as possible that will restore your sense of control over your life. Don’t make any big life decisions or changes.
- Don’t try to fight the intrusive and recurring thoughts, dreams, or images – they are a normal way for the brain to process what has just occurred. They will decrease over time and become less painful.
- Remind yourself that you are first responder not a magician. We cannot change anyone else. We cannot alter the reality of the incident we have just endured. We can only change the way we relate and react to them.
- Seek help if you find your responses intensifying or becoming too intrusive in your life. Pay attention when your family or friends report that you are different.