Support from one’s family, friends and others close to us is important after a disaster. How long it takes to process the events will depend on the seriousness of the experiences, the degree of mortal danger, gruesome eyewitness experiences and any injury to or loss of siblings or close friends.
What are usual acute stress reactions?
There are many different ways in which people may react after disastrous events. Often, the initial reactions are shock, fear and sadness. Some may also feel confused and disoriented. Sleep problems, restlessness, jumpiness and complains such as headaches, stomach pains etc., are common.
Advice for friends and family of those who experienced the disaster
- Re-establish security
Focus on the fact that it is safe now and that the danger is in the past.
- Someone to talk to
Stay together. Take the initiative and reach out. Show empathy and compassion for the person’s experience. Listen to what he/she has to say. Some people need to talk about what happened several times, but this does not apply to everyone. You can also do things together, give practical assistance or just be there.
- Back to everyday life
You can help your loved ones resume everyday activities. This particularly applies to eating and sleeping. Help the person to determine what makes him/her feel better (for example practical activities, walks, listening to music). For those who can manage it, a quick return to studies or work is good. Here there are friends, co-students and colleagues who can help them think about other things for a while.
- Activities
Physical activity helps to reduce bodily unrest. Offer to join in walks or exercise or other enjoyable or amusing activities.
- Be a support person
It is important to recognise pain, fear and grief. It is also useful that someone notices the person’s strengths. These qualities will help the affected person to cope and get on with his/her life
- A feeling of guilt
It is not uncommon to experience a feeling of guilt in connection with disasters, such as thoughts that one could have done more to save others. In that event it is important to focus on the fact that it is only the perpetrator who is responsible for what has happened.
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