Mental Health Tips in the Wake of Trauma.

Step 1: Discuss your emotions

After trauma has occurred, it is the body’s normal response to experience a different range of emotions. Many people will express feelings of:

• Numbness
• Exhaustion
• Confusion
• Sadness
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Physical symptoms—upset stomach, lack of sleep, hyper-arousal

I encourage you to identify the emotions you’re having regarding the events. Once you identify an emotion, you can start to address where in your body you feel it most. It’s important to tune into your body and its needs following traumatic news.

Some of the steps below can ease physical symptoms after a trauma. Also, make sure to take time out to:

• Remain physically active
• Take a relaxing bath and/or shower
• Meditate on three things you’re grateful for
• Get adequate rest at the end of your day

Step 2: Disconnect from exposure

Digital technology allows us easily connect to one another. This usually serves to a benefit to those whose loved ones live far away. In the wake of a traumatic event, however, it can serve as a constant reminder and also widely spread graphic footage.

Give yourself a break from viewing live footage and/or hourly updates. The constant exposure to trauma can evoke secondary PTSD symptoms. Turning off the TV, and logging off of social media for set amount of time can be extremely beneficial.

Step 3: Reach out to a professional

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to seek professional help.

• Excessive fear
• Anger
• Loss of interest in activities
• Isolation
• Irritable or aggressive behavior
• Paranoia
• Being easily startled
• Struggling to fall or stay asleep

Pine Rest has nearly 200 therapists at multiple locations in West Michigan as well as teletherapy, and many other providers are also available in the region. If you are unable to afford treatment, ask the therapist if they have a patient assistance program or check with your employer. Often, organizations have an Employee Assistance Program benefit that provides several free, confidential counseling sessions each year to employees and their household members. The Pine Rest Employee Assistance Program offers programs to employers as well as faith-based organizations and schools.

Step 4: Find a cause to support

To help process feelings of anger and grief, it can be helpful to find a cause to support and advocate for change. There are local legislators and policies that need the help and support of the people to help ensure traumatic violent events and crimes are no longer a frequent occurrence.

It is normal to feel whatever feelings you are having, but it’s important to discuss how we as a community can ensure the safety and well-being of one another. The impact of hatred and violence affects an entire community, but love also can make a long-standing impact on a community.

It is my hope that through the wake of trauma and tragedy that pure love is magnified and touches those near and far.