Ramsay Health Care has released a <a href='http://www.ramsayhealth.com.au/-/media/Documents/MD/2020/RHC-Coping-after-traumatic-event-A4-Flyer.ashx?la=en' target='_blank'>guide to coping after a traumatic event</a> to help assist communities affected by the devastating bushfires.
Traumatic stress can produce overwhelming and unsettling emotions, leaving some people in a state of shock and distress.
Physical signs and symptoms include rapid breathing, racing heart, trembling or shaking, cold sweats, headaches, nausea, feeling choked up, stomach churning, feeling faint or dizzy and tense or aching muscles.
Ramsay’s Mental Health Service Line Director, Dominique Robert-Hendren, said there are a number of strategies Australians can use to help people who have been affected by the devastating fires.
“It can be helpful just to show up and to be present with someone. Have no expectations. Let the person know you are here for them and ask them how you can help,” Ms Robert-Hendren said.
“Another way to offer practical support is to assist with chores, cooking, cleaning, and making doctors’ appointments and alternative accommodation arrangements.”
“You can also offer a listening ear as they may find it helpful to talk about what happened. Don't pressure them - let them take things at their own pace. Let the person know that it is okay if they don't want to talk about what happened. You don’t have to say too much.”
Ms Robert-Hendren said other tips include:
For people directly affected by the bushfires, Ms Robert-Hendren said some helpful strategies include:
For more information, please contact the Ramsay Health Care news desk.
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