You can take steps to help
yourself, your family members, friends and co-workers as we
all cope with the emotional and physical results of
emergencies. The following is a list of
"self-help" suggestions that is designed to help
you cope with stressful events.
-
Get some exercise.
Within the first 24 to 48 hours after an event, short
periods of physical exercise will alleviate some of the
physical reactions to stress.
-
Keep yourself busy.
If you structure your time, you won't have a chance to
get "down."
-
Remind yourself that you
are normal, and your reactions are normal.
-
Talk. Conversation
is one of the most therapeutic things you can do.
-
Be conscious of overuse
of drugs or alcohol. This behavior can complicate
things further and lead to substance abuse.
-
Keep your life as routine
and normal as possible.
-
Realize that it is okay
to spend time alone.
-
Help your coworkers by
sharing feelings and checking out how they are doing -
but respect their feelings if they don't want to talk.
-
Do things you
enjoy. Indulging yourself will make you feel
better.
-
Keep in mind that the
reactions others have won't be normal; stress could
cause them to act and react differently than usual.
-
Write in a journal,
especially if you are having trouble sleeping.
-
Don't make any major life
changes. Buying that new car or getting married
on the spur of the moment could lead to more stress down
the road.
-
Make as many decisions as
you can on a daily basis. This will give you a
sense of control over the events of your own life.
-
Consult COMCARE of
Sedgwick County by calling 263-3770 if you need
assistance. This helpline is available 24 hours a
day. Mobile crisis teams are also available.
Your
Government
