Heartland Behavioral Health Services- The Process of Healing- May 22, 2012

Steps to help yourself and your loved ones continue to heal: Give yourself time to recognize your emotions: Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state. Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. But keep in mind that your typical support system may be weakened if those who are close to you also have experienced or witnessed the trauma. Communicate your experience. In whatever ways feel comfortable to you -- such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a diary. Tell your story Find out about local support groups that often are available. Such as for those who have suffered from natural disasters or other traumatic events. These can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems. Try to find groups led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals. Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs. Establish or reestablish routines: such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities. When should I seek professional help? 1. When your daily life is impacted and your emotional response adversely affects job performance and interpersonal relationships. 2. When the stress is disrupt your daily functioning, eating, sleeping, fear of going out, intense fear of storms. 3. With children, continual and aggressive emotional outbursts, serious problems at school, preoccupation with the traumatic event, continued and extreme withdrawal, and other signs of intense anxiety or emotional difficulties all point to the need for professional assistance.