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Tackle Trauma

Most of us have either experienced a traumatic event ourselves, or we know someone who has.

That's not being negative - It's just fact.

Knowing how to deal with the after-effects of trauma, and how to recognise these effects in others, could make a huge difference in how effectively we, or they, recover from the incident.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is the emotional reaction to a shocking, unexpected event – an event that is way beyond the range of usual human experience.

Examples include:

• Being caught up in a natural or man-made disaster
• Being the victim of a criminal act
• Being involved in a serious motor vehicle accident

• Experiencing sexual or physical assault

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Common Signs of Trauma

Watch out for:

• Social withdrawal
• Flashbacks
• Poor problem solving
• Poor concentration and absentmindedness
• Tearfulness
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep, change in sleep patterns, bad dreams, nightmares

• Tiredness and lack of drive

Most often these reactions appear shortly after the event, but sometimes there may be a delay. They are a normal part of the recovery process – you are not falling apart or losing your mind.

Most people recover from trauma naturally, but remember that it is an ongoing, gradual process. You won't suddenly be "cured" and you won't forget what happened.

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What Can I Do To Help Myself?

• Seek professional counselling, even if you feel you are coping well.
• Reach out to others – explain what you have been through and ask for support.
• Explain to children (without graphic detail) what has happened, so they are not confused by the non-verbal messages they will pick up.
• Be careful of taking drugs and medication "to make things easier".
• Do not make any big life decisions for a while.
• Maintain your normal daily routine as far as possible, and keep occupied.

• Be patient with yourself.

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What Can I Do To Help Others?

• Do not expect them to cope fully with their responsibilities initially - give them time and support.
• Listen carefully, but don't make them talk if they don't want to.
• Don't try to 'fix them" or "sort them out".

• Most importantly, recognise and accept their feelings, and understand their reactions.

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For more advice on dealing with Trauma, as well as detailed information on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, please take a look at my article on trauma on my website – www.clairenewton.co.za

What's next?

Watch out for my next newsletter where you will be E-Quipped to Axe Anxiety

Tip! Save these newsletters and accumulate the series on Be More Productive

More about me

My goal in creating these newsletters is to inspire you to make the changes necessary to ultimately live the life of your dreams!

On my website you'll find more ideas to get you thinking about life, love, work and other important STUFF - all based on my work as a practicing psychologist, speaker, trainer and life coach (and hat lover!)