The APA (American Psychological Association) has published a series of recommendations for managing post-traumatic stress originating from a disaster or a highly traumatic event.
Catastrophes such as hurricanes, traffic accidents, or fires occur suddenly and unexpectedly. An event of this nature generates very intense emotional reactions in the person experiencing it, which can interfere with their daily life and social relationships. To effectively cope with these feelings and thoughts associated with trauma, the APA emphasizes the importance of understanding the most common reactions to a traumatic event. Some reactions that victims may experience include: intense feelings, behavioral changes such as sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, or experiencing flashbacks, sensitivity to environmental factors like sirens or loud noises, problems in interpersonal relationships, even leading to isolation, and physical symptoms related to stress (headaches, nausea, chest pain, etc.).
The Association recommends a series of measures to restore emotional well-being and regain a sense of control, once reactions have been identified:
– Allow yourself time to recover.
– Ask for support.
– Seek a support group.
– Express your feelings.
– Follow a healthy lifestyle.
– Reestablish routines.
– Avoid making important decisions.