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Tips for Recovering from Traumatic Events

The catastrophic events that have occurred in our country have been difficult for all of us. Whether you have been directly affected or "only" witnessed them on television, any reactions you may be experiencing are normal given the enormous terror, suffering and loss of life cause by the
horrific events.

It is common for people who experience traumatic situations to have very strong emotional reactions.

NORMAL REACTIONS TO TRAUMATIC EVENTS

Examples of traumatic events and/or personal tragedies include: accidents,
injuries, illnesses, assaults, robberies, fires, natural disasters (hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes), or terrorist activities.

PHYSICAL
Sleep disruption
Loss of appetite
Minor physical symptoms
Increased startle reactions
Sweating/chills
Fatigue

EMOTIONAL
Anxiety
Guilt
Fear
Irritability
Feeling numb
Sadness
Flashbacks/nightmares

BEHAVIORAL
Memory problems
Confusion
Difficulty with decisions
Trouble concentrating
Intrusive thoughts/visions

Every person responds differently to the extreme stress of traumatic
experiences. Some people respond immediately, while others have delayed
reactions-sometimes months or even years later. Additionally, reactions can
vary over time. Some who have suffered from trauma are energized initially
by the event to help them with the challenge of coping, only to later become
discouraged or depressed.

TIPS FOR COPING WITH TRAUMATIC STRESS

According to the American Psychological Association, there are a number of
steps you can take to help you regain your emotional well being following a
traumatic experience, including the following:

Giver yourself time to heal. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time
in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the loses you have experience. Try to
be patient with changes in your emotional state.

Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and
empathize with your situation. But keep in mind that your typical support
system may be weakened if those who are close to you also have experienced or witnessed the trauma.

Communicate your experience in whatever ways feel comfortable to you-such as talking with family and close friends, or keeping a diary.

Find out about local support groups that often are available, such as for
those who have suffered from natural disasters, or for women who are victims of rape. These can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems.

Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive
stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience
ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through
relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs.

Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and
following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities.

Avoid major life decisions such as switching careers or jobs if possible
because these activities tend to be highly stressful.

CALL YOUR EAP FOR HELP

If difficulties caused by a traumatic event are negatively impacting your
personal life, job performance or daily functioning, call your EAP for
confidential counseling, information or referrals. An EAP counselor can help
you learn constructive ways to deal with the emotional impact caused by a
traumatic event. Why not call today? We're here to help!

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

ENDING THE MORNING BLUES

Eat a well-balanced breakfast each morning. Studies show that people who eat breakfast are generally more productive at their jobs, especially in the
morning hours. And if you think you will lose weight by skipping breakfast,
don't count on it. In fact, you're more likely to overcompensate for lost
calories by eating more late in the day, when your body burns calories less
efficiently and you are more likely to gain excess pounds.

SUCCESSFUL NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

Help change a bad habit by replacing it with a new and healthier one. Don't
dwell on the idea that you can't have what you're giving up. Instead, find a
new activity or new routine or replace it.

BETTER COMMUNICATION FOR COUPLES

To improve your communication, do something together.  Experience has shown that people, particularly men, are more likely to share their feelings when they are doing something together that both can enjoy.

Helping Your Child Cope With Disaster

The intense anxiety and feat that often follows a disaster or other
traumatic event can be especially troubling for children. Below are
suggestions on how you can help your children following a trauma:

Allow children to express their feelings about what has happened. This helps reduce confusion and anxiety related to the trauma. Likewise, share your feelings with them, keeping in mind the age of the child.

Reassure children that they are safe and that they are loved. Remember the importance of touch. Physical affection is very comforting to children who have experienced a trauma.

Be honest with children about what has occurred. Provide facts about what
happened. Remember to be age appropriate.

Help children return to as normal a routine as possible. Keep regular
schedules to help restore a sense of security and normalcy.

Spend extra time with your child. Do something fun or relaxing for both of
you.

Review family safety and communication procedures. This helps children feel prepared if an emergency situation occurs.

Spot warning signs. Watch for behavioral changes in your child, such as
sleep disturbances, fatigue, increased "clinginess," disobedience, social
withdrawal, or persistent fears related to the traumatic event. If your
child exhibits these symptoms or any other unusual behavior, consult with an EAP counselor or other health professional.

(Used with permission by Metropolitan Family Services Employee Assistance
Network

All of us experience personal problems during our lives. Most of them we are able to solve ourselves. However, sometimes even ordinary problems can become overwhelming. It is at these times, your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide help to you and your family.

Services are available for personal problems such as depression, marital,
family & relationship issues, alcohol or substance abuse, stress, financial,
childcare or eldercare consultations

Contact the EAP office 312.663.5600/800.905.0994)

(This newsletter is not intended to provide medical advice on personal
wellness matters, which should be obtained directly from your physician.)