What to Expect After Trauma:

q       Feelings of anxiety, fears, and worries about safety of self/others or re-occurrence of violence

q       Increased levels of distress, irritability, moodiness or defiance

q       Changes in sleep, appetite and/or behavior

q       Decreased concentration and/or attention

q       Withdrawal and/or lack of interest in usual activities

q       Angry outbursts and aggression and/or hate or anger statements

q       Absenteeism from school or work and/or Changes in school or work performance

q       Increased somatic complaints (e.g., headaches, stomachaches, aches and pains)

q       Recreating the event (e.g., talking, thinking or playing repeatedly about the event)

q       Increased sensitivity to sounds (e.g., sirens, planes, thunder, loud noises)

q       Statements and questions about death and dying

q       Regression in children's behaviors (e.g., baby talk, bedwetting, tantrums)

q       Discomfort with feelings, particularly those associated with revenge or vulnerability

q       Negative impact on issues of trust and perceptions of others, particularly of those that are “different”

q       Denial of impact

q       Increased risk for substance abuse, including drinking

What Can I Do To Help?

·        Relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, and visualization

·        Balance physical exercise, adequate rest and good nutrition.

·        Walk away from difficult situations to calm down. Return later and try a new approach.

·        Keep other incidents in perspective. Try not to overreact to small setbacks or minor crises.

·        Set realistic goals regarding what and how much you can do right now.

·        Take one day at a time.

·        Be good to yourself.

·        Continue to find ways to have fun. Take a walk, call a friend, listen to music, or create a picture.

·        Read books, listen to music, take a walk, ride bikes, etc.

·        Use your sense of humor.

·        Identify and be willing to use your support system. Avoid isolation. Have someone available to vent.

·        Reinforce ideas of safety and security.

·        Avoid overexposure to the trauma. Limit exposure to the news and other media about the tragedy.

·        Maintain normal routines of sleeping, eating, and other activities (e.g., sports, church, dance). 

·        Bedtime routines should include safely tucking children in at night.  (Young children may want a night light again.)

·        Avoid unnecessary separations of children from important caregivers.

·        Increase patience with others and with yourself.  Give you and your family time to cope. 

·        Find ways to emphasize to friends and family, especially children that you love them.

·        Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal.

·        Address children's acting-out behavior quickly and firmly with limit setting.

·        Delay making big decisions.

·        Take action and get involved, volunteer/work to make a difference.

·        If you or your family feel too overwhelmed, seek professional help.