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Critical Incident Stress Survival SuggestionsPeople cope with critical incidents (CI) in many ways. Here is some information to help you understand and choose what’s best for YOU. Expect the incident to affect youYou may notice physical, emotional, behavioral or mental reactions such as: flashbacks, restlessness, sleep problems, loss or gain in appetite, sadness, lethargy, disorientation, anxiety, anger, guilt, concentration problems, sexual problems, etc. Most of these reactions are normal. Most critical incident stress (CIS) symptoms are expected to subside within 3 to 4 weeks after the CI. Though the memories may remain, the pain lessens. The more you are able to talk about it, the easier it will get each time. Avoid alcohol or other drugsCIS will drain you physically and psychologically and you may feel its impact even weeks after the CI. Alcohol and drugs will dull your brain and enable you to escape this painful state temporarily without having to address the CIS issues. However, once the effects of the drugs or alcohol wear out, not only are you left struggling with the resulting depression and nausea, but also no psychological healing has taken place. By opting for short-term relief, you slow down the healing process and the issues and symptoms persist. Eat well and exercise
Exercise cleanses the body of stress and releases endorphins in the brain, which makes you feel better. Some vigorous exercise within 24 hours of the incident will bring relief. Exercising regularly thereafter will help you manage the residual stress as you deal with the CIS in the following weeks. Educate yourself about critical incident stressWhat may seem to be unusual reactions often are just normal responses to an abnormal situation. Do not isolate yourself from family, friends, and co-workersFight the urge to withdraw into a shell. People do not have to “understand” in order to care. Consider remaining involved with others - you may find that by doing so, you heal faster. Give yourself time to healCIS can hit hard. Be kind to yourself. Self-criticism and pressure can slow healing. Do not get obsessed by the incidentSome people become obsessed with finding reasons for the critical incident. Life feels meaningless and unfair. Unfortunately, you may not have all the answers, but many of them will come in time. Be patient with yourself and with others. Assess your situation carefully before returning to workFor most workers experiencing critical incident stress, work speeds up healing by focusing the mind and making it harder to dwell incessantly on the incident. GET HELP IF NECESSARYIf the incident is staying with you longer than you think it should, call 1-888-389-3473 or contact your local team coordinator. If you or a colleague, family member or friend has suicidal thoughts as a result of their involvement in a critical incident obtain help immediately. CISM team 24-hour emergency hotline at 1-888-389-3473 "Training to Save Lives" top
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