It is normal to have strong emotional and/or physical reactions following a distressing event, including natural disasters. These reactions may be experienced if you were directly or indirectly exposed. Almost everyone who experiences a distressing event will be emotionally affected, but not everyone will respond in the same way.

Possible reactions to traumatic events include:

Feeling stressed, anxious, exhausted or confused
Feeling sad, overwhelmed or angry
Shock, feeling ‘numb’
Uncertainty about the future
Feeling lonely, isolated or withdrawn
Feeling unwell – headaches, difficulty sleeping, eating, weight loss/gain
Resentment or blaming others
Increased substance use
Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

For most, these reactions subside over a few days or weeks.

When to seek help:

If distress lasts longer than one month, it is a good idea to seek the support of a health professional. Talking to your GP about how you are feeling is a good place to start.

Only some people who are distressed after a traumatic event will develop a mental illness such as Post Traumatic Distress Disorder (PTSD), Depression or Anxiety.

Self-help strategies:

Find a safe place to stay
Talk to someone you trust
Know that how you are feeling is normal result of a traumatic event
Give yourself time, know that the way you are feeling will not last
Make time for relaxation
Exercise and eat regular, well-balanced meals
Restrict stimulants such as tea, coffee, chocolate, soft-drinks and cigarettes
Avoid drugs and alcohol
Try to get back to your normal routine as soon as possible

Supporting someone you know:

Don’t pressure the person into talking
Be a good listener
Be patient
Provide practical support e.g. offer to watch children, pets, do the weekly shopping
Encourage the person to take care of themselves and do things they enjoy
Take care of yourself

Coping with Anniversaries

Coping with Christmas