Witnessing 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.