What happens afterwards.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A reaction, which may be immediate or delayed.
WHAT REACTIONS ARE COMMON
Difficulty sleeping Reliving the event Anxiety in similar situations Irritability Difficulty concentrating Avoiding places or activities
WHY IT MATTERS
These are ordinary responses, and treating them as weakness prevents people addressing them.
WHAT TO DO
Take it seriously.
WHAT HELPS
Talking to someone Returning to routine gradually Sleep and physical care Not being alone immediately afterwards
WHAT TO AVOID
Minimising it Expecting immediate normality Using alcohol or substances to manage it
WHAT TO DO IF IT PERSISTS
Seek professional support.
WHY
Difficulties that do not resolve are treatable and they do not improve by being endured.
WHAT TO DO FOR SOMEONE ELSE
Listen without pressing for detail Avoid telling them what they should have done Offer practical help Check on them later
WHY NOT TELLING THEM WHAT THEY SHOULD HAVE DONE
It is the commonest unhelpful response and it produces self-blame.
WHAT TO SAY INSTEAD
That it was not their fault.
WHAT PRACTICAL MATTERS TO ADDRESS
Replacing documents Securing accounts Reporting Insurance claims
WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE PLACE OR ROUTINE
Change what can reasonably be changed.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH FOR A BUSINESS
That staff involved in incidents are supported.
WHY
It is routinely ignored, and it affects whether they stay.
