Coping with Tragedy

Typical responses

Shock and disbelief: immediately after learning
about such tragedies, many people may feel numb, or feel like such
events can’t quite be real.
Speculation about what happened, and
seeking more information, such as listening to or watching the
news, checking the web for updates, talking to others about what you
each know or have heard.
Physical reactions including fatigue, nightmares, exhaustion,
and health problems.
Cognitive reactions including difficulty concentrating,
making decisions, or memory problems.
Emotional reactions including
fear, guilt, anxiety, depression, feelings of helplessness, and
anger.
Wanting to check in with loved ones, even if they are not close to
the disaster, or in any immediate danger. It is normal to want
to touch base with someone you care about.
In the hours and days following
such tragedies, the shock begins to wear off, and more feelings
may emerge. It
is important to share these feelings with people that you trust.

Do activities to de-stress and help yourself to feel
safe.
Structure your time – keep busy.
Give yourself permission to have
feelings and to share those feelings w/others.
Help your fellow students
by checking out how they’re doing.
Talk to others – this is
the most healing medicine.
Listen to others – reassure them that
they are safe, don’t
take their feelings personally.
Don’t scapegoat.
Don’t turn to alcohol or drugs.
Keep your life as normal as possible.
Keep a journal.
Reassure yourself that a wide range of reactions and feelings
are normal.
Remind yourself that DU takes your safety seriously and
is doing everything possible to keep you safe.

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