Psychological response
- People can have many different reactions to tragedy. Often we feel first shock, then denial, anger and depression before we move to grief and acceptance. These stages are not necessarily sequential and we are often stuck in one stage for some time before mmoving on.
- Some people will be in shock, stunned and dissociated for a while. They may feel disoriented in time, and place, and sometimes in person. They may feel numb and cut off from the terror and pain.
- People may feel fear and deep sorrow, uncertainty and helplessness. These feelings are normal too and will pass.
- People may feel confused, not able to think well, concentrate, remember things or problem-solve. They may feel depressed, exhausted, unable to rest and wanting to withdraw. All these feelings are normal if they don’t last for an extended period of time.
- People may feel agitated, anxious, hyper-alert and hyper- vigilant (‘on guard’), easily irritated and unable to control their emotions. They need to engage in activities and creative expression that help to calm them. Being with Family members and friends can help calming.
- People may feel suspicious and paranoid. They may be feel intense anger and want to engage in antisocial acts. They can become very critical and blame everyone. It is important to talk to friends and get a “reality check” on our perspectives.
- Children may become ‘clingy’ and have nightmares. They may have stomachaches and headaches. Alternatively, they may act out aggressively. This is normal. It might last a few days or more but it will pass. They need to be reassured and made to feel protected.
Psychological Response