General stages of a post-traumatic stress response:

• Shock: Shock and disbelief are the first responses to trauma. One cannot grasp the enormity of the event, or may feel immobilized or numb. One may become extremely disoriented, making it difficult to keep track of or perform normal daily activities. This stage of shock may last from a few hours to several weeks.
• Denial: One may disregard the event or minimize the emotional impact. Some may dismiss their emotions, including anxiety and fear. Denial can be a useful psychological strategy, as it allows people the time to get through a crisis and reestablish structure in their lives. Denial can last from days to years.
• Impact: During this stage the denial lifts. One can begin to focus on the reality and the negative consequences of the trauma. Sometimes symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) may surface and intensify.

Stages of recovery

• Safety and self care: Let others help! It is important to find the right people to talk to. Having a supportive listener available can be very helpful. Services are available at Wardenburg Psychiatric Services, Counseling and Psychological Services a Multicultural Center, and the UMC. It is also important that you care for yourself by eating a good diet, sleeping regularly, exercising, and avoiding alcohol and drugs.
• Remembrance and mourning: This is the stage during which one grieves the loss experienced in the trauma. Anger, grief, and a sense of helplessness are almost always present at this stage.
• Reconnection and resolution: During this stage one begins to regain a sense of control and responsibility. This stage is one of acceptance of suffering in our lives and the lives of others. It is a time during which one searches for meaning in the trauma.

Normal Reactions to a Traumatic Event

What to expect after a trauma:

• Trouble sleeping and nightmares
• Distressing memories of the event
• Feeling overwhelmed by the trauma
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Feelings of anxiousness and/or depression
• Loss of a sense of safety and trust

Trauma disrupts all parts of our lives

Trauma challenges our beliefs and attitudes about personal safety, trust in ourselves and others, our sense of power or helplessness in the world, and our self-esteem. The post-traumatic stress response is a normal reaction occurring in normal people who have been through a terrifying situation over which they had no control.

Helpful hints for recovery:

• Structure your environment
• Take care of your body
• Contribute to relief efforts: such as giving blood
• Give yourself some time each day to process the events
• Talk about your feelings
• Stay connected with friends and family
• Get the support you need
• Remember you are reacting normally to an abnormal event!

Information adapted from Counseling Insights: Topics for Personal Growth, a publication of Counseling and Psychological Services: a Multicultural Center.