Critical Incident Stress Management (Trauma Debriefing/Management)

When tragedy strikes, rarely is it expected or planned for. Usually it comes in the form of unexpected trauma ranging from natural disasters such as tornadoes and hurricanes, to the unfathomable tragedies of 9-11 terrorism. As human beings, we are equipped to handle these tragedies, but we must understand that part of what tells us we need help is the intense, and often shocking, distress that follows. If not addressed, these symptoms (often referred to as Critical Incident Stress or Post Traumatic Stress) may linger for months or even years, needlessly complicating our lives, and worrying our loved ones who may feel helpless when trying to ease our pain.

While we all experience trauma, grief, etc. in our own unique ways, there are several trends that seem to be rather consistent across traumatic experiences. Beginning with shock, denial and sometimes even repression of the experience, the symptoms of traumatic stress will also include other cognitive, behavioral, physical and emotional symptoms. Appetite and sleep fluctuation, irritability, depression, fear and recurring images (flashbacks) are common. More severe symptoms may include chronic depression, phobic reactions to triggers of memories, job loss, physical decline and major personality changes. Remember, these unpleasant experiences can be seen as reminders that something needs to be done. . .since if we are comfortable we have no motivation to change how we are living--it is the discomfort itself (of the above symptoms) that motivates change. It is our own responsibility to ask for help, or to heed the suggestions of our loved ones--even if we feel unmotivated or too tired to pursue making an appointment with a counselor.

While some people may be able to effectively manage their traumatic stress without counseling or traumatic stress management/debriefing, it is always best to talk to a professional if you have any hesitation at all--it is worth the time and expense to put your mind at ease; remember, some of the manifestations of traumatic stress can be subtle as they stay inside and fester only to show up later as more distressing symptoms.

In order to deal with traumatic stress effectively, it is suggested that you contact a credentialed Critical Incident Stress Management professional (Mr. Anderson holds the highest level of certification from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation) within the first 24-72 hours to begin the process of bringing structure to the chaos of tragedy aftermath. Your healing may involve both group debriefings and individual counseling, as well as ongoing after care for a few weeks, or as long as you feel is necessary (Mr. Anderson provides both group debriefings and individual follow-up counseling).

Here are some suggestions for things to try after surviving a tragedy (these may also be used as suggestions for loved ones that are struggling):

• Try to remember, it is OK to feel rotten about a rotten situation
• As you feel ready, begin to bring normalcy back in your life by doing things that you used to do before trauma
• Exercise and follow a healthy diet (talk to your doctor!)
• Talk to your friends and family
• Talk with a professional counselor (pref. Critical Incident trained)
• Practice meditation, relaxation, gentle, relaxed breathing
• Get plenty of rest
• Attempt to find something that you can learn from the trauma (i.e., how to prepare for a tornado, how to perform 1st aid and CPR, learn self-defense)