Suggested Tips for Recovering From A Critical Incident

People who have experienced a critical incident event often demonstrate changes in behavior. The following suggestions reduce the probability of long-term stress reactions. 

Do

1. Establish a sense of safety and follow a familiar routine. 
2. Expect the incident to bother you. 
3. Remind yourself that post-trauma consequences are normal. 
4. Learn as much as possible about post-traumatic incident stress. 
5. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise. 
6. Take time for leisure activities. 
7. Spend time with supportive people. 
8. Allow yourself to grieve. Grieving involves: Acknowledging your losses; Allowing yourself to feel pain, sadness, and/or anger; and talking about the trauma with people you trust. 
9. Keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings. 
10. Know your limits. Be patient with yourself during this process. 
11. Use your Best Care Employee Assistance confidential counseling support. 

Don’t 

1. Drink alcohol excessively or increase caffeine intake. 
2. Use illegal or legal substances to “numb” yourself. 
3. Withdraw from family, friends, or co-workers. 
4. Reduce leisure activities. 
5. Take on new major projects. 
6. Make major changes if they are not necessary. 
7. Automatically stay away from work. 
8. Look for easy answers to explain the reasons for the incident. 
9. Think you are “crazy” or “losing it”. 
10. Pretend everything is “fine” or “OK”. 
11. Have unrealistic expectations for your recovery time. 

Symptoms of anxiety may not appear for weeks or even months after a critical incident; and they can affect people of any age. If stress or anxiety disrupts daily activities for you or any member of your family, Best Care EAP can help. 

To schedule your confidential appointment, call (402) 354-8000 or (800) 801-4182, or send an email.