It seems like a long time since I penned a letter on my blog.
The current storm season, hail, winds, rain, electricity outages, damage to houses and cars as well as fires are hitting our news recently. It is that time of the year in Australia, a land of droughts and flooding rains.
My thoughts turn to those 20 % of people who when traumatic events happen will develop symptoms of acute stress reactions and post traumatic stress disorder. We used to think, hope, that this could be prevented with emergency therapy, critical stress debriefing, but research evidence seemed to prove otherwise. We certainly know that family and friend support, communities pulling together and sharing their grief and sorrows as well as their triumphs and joy is the best way to cope with the issues life throws at us. It is at these times that she discover our neighbours and community supports.
Early detection of stress disorder is now thought to be the best approach. If you have nightmares, can't sleep, have recurring memories of bad events, this can be the warning signs of post traumatic stress disorder. Erratic moods with tears, sadness, irritability and frustration are also common signs of difficulty. Anxiety, agitation, worrying, are common. Withdrawing from people and activities you normally enjoy are also warning signs.
If these things happen, see your local doctor. Ask for referral to see a psychiatrist. Your doctor may also send you to a psychologist. There are also medications that can help. Getting sleep back in order is essential as lack of sleep can make the whole problem much worse. Look after each other too. If a friend or family member is suffering suggest that help is available.
Knowledge of the problems is like a preparation plan for disasters. Not only do we need to have a fire, flood, evacuation plan with stores of batteries, a radio, food and fresh water available but a mental health plan as well.
The current storm season, hail, winds, rain, electricity outages, damage to houses and cars as well as fires are hitting our news recently. It is that time of the year in Australia, a land of droughts and flooding rains.
My thoughts turn to those 20 % of people who when traumatic events happen will develop symptoms of acute stress reactions and post traumatic stress disorder. We used to think, hope, that this could be prevented with emergency therapy, critical stress debriefing, but research evidence seemed to prove otherwise. We certainly know that family and friend support, communities pulling together and sharing their grief and sorrows as well as their triumphs and joy is the best way to cope with the issues life throws at us. It is at these times that she discover our neighbours and community supports.
Early detection of stress disorder is now thought to be the best approach. If you have nightmares, can't sleep, have recurring memories of bad events, this can be the warning signs of post traumatic stress disorder. Erratic moods with tears, sadness, irritability and frustration are also common signs of difficulty. Anxiety, agitation, worrying, are common. Withdrawing from people and activities you normally enjoy are also warning signs.
If these things happen, see your local doctor. Ask for referral to see a psychiatrist. Your doctor may also send you to a psychologist. There are also medications that can help. Getting sleep back in order is essential as lack of sleep can make the whole problem much worse. Look after each other too. If a friend or family member is suffering suggest that help is available.
Knowledge of the problems is like a preparation plan for disasters. Not only do we need to have a fire, flood, evacuation plan with stores of batteries, a radio, food and fresh water available but a mental health plan as well.
