Some great advice on coping after a traumatic event

18 March, 2019

We are all impacted by what’s happened in Christchurch. If you, or someone you know, needs mental wellbeing support or advice then call or text 1737 anytime for free, 24/7. There’s also some great advice on coping after a traumatic event. 

Children are asking what’s happened? Why did it happen? Why are people upset?

  1. Reassure them that the event is over and they are safe.
  2. Encourage them to talk about how they feel
  3. Encourage them to ask questions, and answer them in plain language be honest but avoid details.
  4. Give your children extra love, attention and your time.
  5. Remember that children look to us as parents to feel safe and to know how to respond – reassure them, share that you are upset too.

And for the wider community, the thing to know is that after a traumatic event it is normal to feel distressed, anxious and maybe even angry.

Take care of yourselves

  1. Spend time in places that feel safe and comfortable
  2. Tell yourself that how you are feeling is a normal reaction and it will pass
  3. Reach out to family and whānau, friends, workmates
  4. Keep to usual routines .
  5. Keep active

Try not to

  1. Talk about details of the traumatic event repeatedly - talking about feelings is helpful, but avoid repeatedly talking about what happened, of the detail of the event, what you saw, and so on.
  2. Being constantly reminded of the event is not helpful - turn off Facebook and the news if it’s distressing you

For more information, click here.