Skip to main content

Common Reactions Following a Traumatic Event

Emergency service providers as well as citizens can experience the following symptoms following a crisis event. In a crisis situation, one may experience emotional detachment in order to cope and function. The following reactions may occur hours, days, weeks, or months after an event.

Physical:

  • Stomach problems / indigestion
  • Headache
  • Chest pains
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Hyper alertness / easily startled

Emotional:

  • Irritability / anger
  • Preoccupation with the event and one’s role in it
  • Depression
  • Guilt
  • Anxiety
  • Emotional numbness

Behavioral:

  • Impulsiveness
  • Excessive risk taking
  • Silence
  • Withdrawal

Cognitive:

  • Sleep disturbances / nightmares
  • Poor Concentration
  • Difficulty in decision making
  • Change in personal or work habits
  • Memory problems
  • Difficulty with details
Back to top