The team at Picking Up The Peaces express our sincere sadness for those involved in the Queensland floods, the floods in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and South Australia, and the bushfires in Western Australia. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
These Floods and their Effects are Traumatic
These devastating floods will have an overwhelming impact on the many people involved, including emergency service workers and volunteers, either because they or a loved one have been directly affected or because they have witnessed the destruction, death or injuries that have occurred. People watching or listening to the media coverage can also be affected as the images can reactivate painful memories of similar disasters from their past. While getting information is important, watching or listening to news too regularly can re-traumatise some people.
Normal Emotional Responses are Difficult for Everyone
The feelings of confusion and disorientation, fear, sadness and anger are completely normal reactions. Some people may also experience a sense of extreme guilt (known as survivor guilt) when their lives or homes have been spared, while their neighbours’ and friends’ may not have. Sleeping and concentrating will be difficult. It is very important at this time to try to have regular meals, some rest and sleep if possible. Seeking support from family and friends and establishing a safe environment and routine will assist in a quicker recovery.
When Effects Last too Long or Interfere with Functioning
With time these reactions will slowly lessen for most people and life will slowly fall back into place, however for some, these emotions can last longer and start interfering with their ability to return to normal routine. If those affected are still agitated and confused and begin displaying uncharacteristic behaviours such as sudden extremes of anger, fear, sadness, helplessness and emotional withdrawal, this could be a sign that they are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Having PTSD means that Traumatic Responses are Triggered and Re-Experienced Over and Over Again
Self-medicating with the use of drugs, alcohol or work is common and simple tasks will become difficult as fatigue, flashbacks and nightmares occur. A sudden downfall of rain or clap of thunder can take those suffering PTSD into complete terror, as they will feel like they are reliving the floods all over again. Relationships are often stretched to the limits, as financial difficulties and the loss of livelihood can add even more stress for those experiencing PTSD.
Taking Care of Yourself Helps Recovery
People who have been through these floods need time to manage their distress and cope with what they have been through or witnessed. However, those who experience severe distress or who are finding it hard to cope should talk to a health professional – a GP or community health centre is a good place to start. The flood disaster relief have also established professional counsellors to assist.
Seek Help From Professionals and Supportive Family/ Friends – It is a Bad Idea to Try to Deal with this Alone
If you, or someone you know have been affected by the floods and are experiencing difficulties finding assistance ask a friend or family member to help. Their thoughts will be clearer and they’ll be able to assist with making appointments. The message is “Don’t be afraid to seek help”. You are experiencing a normal reaction to an abnormal event. Talking to family and friends can be very beneficial also.
Emergency service personnel should contact their EAP or HR department and utilise the services provided.
If you, or someone you know is feeling very stressed and unable to cope please call Lifeline on 131114
www.lifeline.org.au/
For further information on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder look around this site – www.pickingupthepeaces.org.au . There are links in the sidebar and articles here.
July 30th, 2011 
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