Common Psychological Responses to Traumatic Events

Common Psychological Responses to Traumatic Events PTSD Coping Print Common Psychological Responses to Traumatic Events By Kendra Cherry facebook twitter Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author, educational consultant, and speaker focused on helping students learn about psychology. Learn about our editorial policy Kendra Cherry Updated on June 24, 2019 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes & Risk Factors Treatment Living With In Children Jamie Grill / Getty Images Psychological reactions to a crisis  or traumatic events vary considerably from person to person and symptoms and reaction times are typically different for each individual. Responses to Traumatic Events Because psychological responses vary for each person, its important that those treating or living with individuals undergoing a crisis learn to recognize the common reactions to a traumatic event. Reactions can include changes in behavior, physical well-being, psychological health, thinking patterns, spiritual beliefs, and social interactions. These signs, symptoms, and reactions are common psychological responses to a crisis or traumatic event. Some of them include: DisbeliefEmotional numbnessNightmares and other sleep disturbancesAnger, moodiness, and irritabilityForgetfulnessDenialGuiltPanicBecoming obsessiveSocial withdrawalIncreased use of alcohol and drugsIsolation or withdrawal from othersDisinterest in previous activitiesCryingSleeping too muchGriefQuestioning faith or religion Responses to a Current Crisis Albert R. Roberts describes the characteristics of individuals who are currently going through a crisis or traumatic event. They include: Beginning to recognize that theres a threatDiscovering that the stress and trauma of the event cannot be dealt with using existing coping skillsExperiencing fear, confusion, and stressExhibiting symptoms of distress and discomfortEntering a state of imbalance where the crisis situation seems insurmountable How You Can Help Someone Through Trauma or Crisis If someone you  know has been or is going  through a traumatic event or crisis, there are ways you can help, including: Being available to listenReassuring her that shes safeHelping him with household tasks such as shopping, cleaning, cooking, or taking care of kidsSpending time with herNot taking negative emotions or outburst to heartEncouraging him to get plenty of rest and to eat wellMaking sure she has time to herselfRecognizing his suffering and encouraging and supporting his ability to copeMaking sure she has other supportive people and/or networks in her lifeHelping him recognize when its time to get outside help Treatment May Be Needed Crisis counseling can be very beneficial to help people cope with the negative effects of a crisis situation. While most crisis events are time-limited, long-term exposure to stressors and traumas can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders. Individuals suffering from PTSD experience flashbacks, nightmares, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms, which often become so severe that they interfere with daily life. While PTSD is a serious disorder, psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments. Unfortunately, many people who have been through a disaster or traumatic event dont think they need help even though they acknowledge psychological distress. Because the risk of PTSD and other mental health issues is increased, its important to encourage individuals who have been through a disaster, crisis, or trauma to seek help.