Sweating, fatigue, dizziness, twitches, headaches, chest pain, chills, grinding of teeth, increased heart rate, increased thirst, disrupted sleep, changes in appetite, visual difficulties, nausea/vomiting, shortness of breath, high blood pressure. ANY OF THESE PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS MAY INDICATE A NEED FOR MEDICAL ATTENTION. WHEN IN DOUBT, CALL YOUR DOCTOR.
Depression, fear, guilt, anxiety/panic, agitation, irritability, social withdrawal, intense anger, increased alcohol consumption or drug use.
Confusion, hypervigilance, poor concentration, poor attention span, nightmares, poor memory, suspiciousness, intrusive thoughts. Strategies: *Don't try to fight the nightmares, flashbacks and intrusive thoughts. They are normal and will decrease over time.
*Exercise, especially within the first 24-48 hours. *Get plenty of rest. *Eat well and stay hydrated. *Limit caffeine and be aware of numbing pain with overuse of drugs and/or alcohol.
Strategies: *Understand that you are having a normal reaction to an abnormal situation. Be kind to yourself. *Spend time with and talk to others. Encourage them to listen without offering advice. *Don't make any major life decisions or changes. *Structure your time and maintain as normal a schedule as possible. *Keep a journal. *Help your co-workers by sharing your feelings and check on their well-being. Realize that others are experiencing similar stressors.
Strategies: *Understand that you are having a normal reaction to an abnormal situation. Be kind to yourself. *Spend time with and talk to others. Encourage them to listen without offering advice. *Don't make any major life decisions or changes. *Structure your time and maintain as normal a schedule as possible. *Keep a journal. *Help your co-workers by sharing your feelings and check on their well-being. Realize that others are experiencing similar stressors.