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