Whether or not you were directly affected by the event, it is normal to feel anxious about your own safety, to picture the event in your own mind, and to wonder how you would react in an emergency.
People react in different ways to stressful events. Some become irritable or feel depressed, others lose sleep or have nightmares, and others deny their feelings or simply "blank out" the troubling event.
While it may feel better to pretend the event did not happen, in the long run it is best to be honest about your feelings, your own reactions and to allow yourself to acknowledge the sense of loss and uncertainty.
It is important to realize that, while things may seem off balance for a while, your life will return to normal.
It is important to talk with someone about your sorrow, anger, emotions and other reactions, even though it may be difficult to get started. The important thing is that you have someone you trust to confide in about your thoughts, feelings, and other normal reactions you may be experiencing. A sense of normalcy will transpire from expressing such.
While you will always remember the event, the painful reactions will decrease over time, and you will come to understand that, in learning to cope with tragedy, you have become stronger, more adaptable, and more self-reliant.
You’re normal and having normal reactions to an abnormal event.
Focus on your strengths and coping skills.
Talk to your children; answer their questions according to their age and level of understanding. Be supportive and be attentive to their needs. Keep your daily routine as normal as possible as this reassures children.
Remember that you are not alone.
If in crisis; 24 hour emergency numbers:
- CHIMO helpline: 1-800-667-5005
- Tele-care: 811
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
