This week our nation experienced two random shootings in less than 5 days. One of them took place at a mall closeby here in the Portland area. Many people have been deeply impacted by these events whether or not they were close by and they knew the victims or family/friends of the victims. Hearing about these tragedies seems to elicit the response of shock, disbelief, sadness, depression, confusion and anger. Places that previously seemed safe; malls or elementary schools, now are places to be on alert. All of us lost something this week, for some the losses are unimaginable. Questions arise as to how this could happen, authorities search for explanations or motives. But in the end, no answer will prove to be satisfactory. Many people return to their system of faith to seek comfort and answers at times like these.
Statistics tell us that around 60% of us over the course of our lifetime will witness some kind of ‘potentially traumatizing event’. Of those 60% less than 10% will develop post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The range of symptoms early on after a tragedy vary greatly. Some are highly affected experiencing emotional symptoms such as anxiety, dread, confusion, and anger. Bodily symptoms such as rapid heart rate, insomnia, GI disturbances etc can also occur. Others may appear calm and detached or go numb. Each person will process the event differently, but it is important that they do process it. Reaching out to trusted family or friends rather than isolating and engaging in common sense body care (eating, sleeping, exercising) are good choices. Seeking professional help early on can be very helpful in getting through a trauma. EMDR can be helpful in the early days surrounding a trauma in facilitating the brain’s processing and self healing mechanisms.
For those who lost loved ones, the grief process will endure. For others who may have witnessed the trauma, most will naturally process it and return to pre- trauma levels of functioning in 1-3 months. Those who continue to have symptoms after that time frame should seek professional help. EMDR has significant research accumulated in showing it’s powerful impact in helping the brain process a traumatic event. If you are struggling this week and need help, please do reach out to someone.