Witnessing a Traumatic Event
Learn how to help and support those who have witnessed a traumatic event.
How can a traumatic event can impact someone?
A traumatic event can affect someone emotionally, physically, and mentally. These feelings are normal and will usually pass within a few weeks. Below are some common feelings someone may have after a traumatic event:
- Continued thoughts and images of the event.
- Wanting to stay away from the scene of the event and/or fear of returning to work.
- Difficulty concentrating, or feeling dazed or confused.
- Difficulty handling tasks or making decisions.
- Increased wandering around or just sitting and staring without direction.
- Feelings of guilt or wishing they could have done something different.
- Wanting to separate themselves from family, coworkers, and friends.
- Nightmares and/or trouble sleeping.
- Headaches or other physical reactions such as stomachaches or feeling tired all the time.
- Using alcohol or drugs to numb feelings.
How can you take care of yourself after a traumatic event?
If you have seen or been through a traumatic event, the following may be helpful.
- Talk to someone. Talking about it may feel uncomfortable, but it may help you feel better.
- Avoid using alcohol or drugs as way of coping.
- Keep active. Physical activity is a good way to reduce stress.
- Eat well and get enough sleep to feel rested. Feeling physically healthy can help you feel emotionally strong.
- Do something you enjoy. Spend time with your pets. Keep busy with hobbies. Get away to a spot where you feel your best.
- Use your support system. Talk to friends, your partner, family, or a counselor. Talking about it is a step toward healing.
- Call your Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Talk to a professional if your reactions are impacting your work or personal life. Consult your employer or human resources contact for employer-based EAP assistance.
How can you support someone who has experienced a traumatic event?
It can be hard to know what to say or do when someone has experienced a traumatic event. Here are some ways to be supportive during a difficult time.
- Listen. Ask questions respectfully. If the person seems uncomfortable talking about it, let them know that you’re available if needed.
- Don’t take the person’s reactions personally. Anger, withdrawal, or irritability are normal reactions to a traumatic event.
- Avoid clichés like “I know how you feel” or “Everything will be all right.”
- Be honest. If you don’t know what to say, simply say that.
- Provide a place of safety. Being there for someone and providing periods of silence can be healing.
- Allow tears and laughter. They are part of the healing process.
- Don’t try to fix it. Spending time together is enough.
- Lower expectations for a while. Those who have experienced a traumatic event often have a hard time concentrating and making decisions. They may struggle to stay on task and complete their work.
- At work, offer support with simple things such as picking up some of their workload (with your manager’s permission) or running errands for them.
If they seem to be having a hard time getting over the event, give them the EAP number through your employer and suggest they talk to someone there.
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This material is provided by Cigna for informational/educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical/clinical advice. Only a health care professional can make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment plan. For more information about your behavioral health coverage, you can call the customer service or the behavioral health telephone number listed on your health care identification card.
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