What to expect after a critical incident

Here is a list of common physical and emotional reactions to trauma, as well as a list of helpful coping strategies. These are NORMAL reactions to ABNORMAL events.

Physical Response:

• aches and pains like headaches, backaches, stomach aches 
• sudden sweating and/or heart palpitations (fluttering) 
• changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and interest in sex 
• constipation or diarrhea 
• easily startled by noises or unexpected touch 
• more susceptible to colds and illnesses 
• increased use of alcohol or drugs and/or overeating 

Emotional Response:

• shock and disbelief 
• fear and/or anxiety 
• grief, disorientation, denial 
• hyper-alertness or hyper vigilance      
• irritability, restlessness, outbursts of anger or rage 
• emotional swings -- like crying and then laughing 
• worrying or ruminating -- intrusive thoughts of the trauma 
• nightmares 
• flashbacks -- feeling like the trauma is happening now 
• feelings of helplessness, panic, feeling out of control 
• increased need to control everyday experiences 
• minimizing the experience 
• attempts to avoid anything associated with trauma 
• tendency to isolate oneself 
• feelings of detachment 
• concern over burdening others with problems 
• emotional numbing or restricted range of feelings 
• difficulty trusting and/or feelings of betrayal 
• difficulty concentrating or remembering 
• feelings of self-blame and/or survivor guilt 
• shame 
• diminished interest in everyday activities or depression 
• unpleasant past memories resurfacing 
• loss of a sense of order or fairness in the world; expectation of doom and fear of the future