Critical Incident Stress

Critical incident stress is a normal human reaction to a traumatic event. Each person may have a different reaction even though they experienc ed the same event. Even though the event may be over, you may now be experiencing or may experience later some strong emotional or physical reactions. It is very common, and in fact quite normal, for people to experience emotional aftershocks when they have pass ed through a horrible event.

Sometimes the emotional aftershocks (or stress reactions) appear imm ediately after the traumatic event. Sometimes they may appear a few hours or a few days later. And, in some cases, weeks or months may pass before the stress reactions appear.

The signs and symptoms of a stress reaction may last a few days, a few weeks or a few months and occasionally longer depending on the severity of the traumatic event. With the understanding and the support of lov ed ones, stress reactions usually pass more quickly. Occasionally, the traumatic event is so painful that professional assistance from a counsellor may be necessary. This does not imply craziness or weakness. It simply indicates that the particular trauma was just too powerful to manage without help.

The First 24-Hours After the Incident

Usually there is the desire to go home and rest. There may be an initial shock, and then numbness following a horrible event. Some people feel a strong desire to talk about what happen ed, or a wish to be left alone. All these reactions are normal.  During this time it is valuable for the individual to be with others who experienced the same event as this promotes processing and accepting the event.

You may notice physical reactions (upset stomach, muscle tension), changes in thinking, (lack of concentration, recurring images), different behaviours (avoiding family or friends, overly vigilant), and changes in emotions (despair, irritability). If you are experiencing any of the above reactions after an incident, likely your reactions are normal. If you are unsure, check with your doctor.

What are some common signs of a stress reaction?

* If you experience any physical or cognitive changes that seem out of the ordinary, then you ne ed to consult with your physician for a m edical evaluation!

How can I take care of myself?

Some things you can do right away for ...

A. Your Body

Eat well: Avoid deep-fri ed food, excessive sweets, and coffee. They can add to your stress.

Get some exercise: Even a long walk is helpful - especially within the first 24-hours after the event.

Beware of false rem edies: Alcohol and drugs can provide imm ediate temporary relief but they can add new problems and complicate recovery.

Rest: Find a quiet place to rest. R educe unnecessary stimulation (avoid violent movies).

B. Your Mind

Keep it simple: The stress that you are feeling only means that you are under stress. This is no time to reflect on your career or to make major decisions in your life.

Do not fight the images: The more people try to block an image (e.g., decapitation, robbery), the more an image can emerge as a disruption. Allow the stressful image to pass through your mind.

C. Your Emotions

If you want to cry, then cry: If you are embarrass ed about crying, then you may want to be alone.

Accept the "roller coaster" of emotions: Sudden changes from numbness, to anger, to grief may confuse you. That is okay and it is common.

Critical Incident Stress runs a natural course. The intensity and frequency of symptoms will diminish with time.

A debriefing with your colleagues or crew is common. You will be inform ed by your employer if there is to be a debriefing. At the same time, you may wish to speak with a therapist alone by calling your Employee Assistance Program, your Community Mental Health Clinic, or a private therapist list  under "Counsellors" in the telephone yellow pages.

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