Dealing with trauma after a crime-related incident

Most South Africans have been affected by crime either through a direct incident, as a bystander or through a loved one. The emotional toll from a traumatic event can cause intense, confusing and frightening symptoms.

Ivan Govender, KZN district manager at Fidelity ADT, said following an incident, it is critical for not only the victims of an incident get help through counselling but those indirectly affected too.

“Often domestic staff are present to witness an incident, or possibly a neighbour or family member comes to help the victim. All these people can be affected by the trauma in different ways and need help to deal with the trauma,” he said.

Here are a few ideas that could be included in your recovery plan:

* Get active – Exercise is a great way to help your body process trauma by burning off adrenaline and releasing endorphins. Try and do some form of exercise whether it’s walking, running, swimming, or even dancing. It’s also a great way to get out and enjoy some fresh air.

* Aim for healthy living – a healthy body can help you deal with stress better. Along with exercise, try and eat properly and get regular sleep. Trauma can often disrupt sleep, so try and get into a routine of going to bed at the same time and getting up at the same time each day. Avoid alcohol and drugs and consider some relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises.

* Don’t withdraw from the world – isolation only makes things worse. Connecting to others will help you heal, so make an effort to maintain your relationships and avoid spending too much time alone. See friends, participate in social activities and consider joining a support group.

* Breathe through moments of stress – there are going to be moments when you feel agitated, anxious and out of control. Experiment with different techniques to calm yourself like taking deep breaths, focusing on something distracting, listening to music, stroking your pet, going into the garden and so on. You can self-regulate your nervous system and calm your body. Find what works for you.

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Dr Leanne Mandim, Head: Health and Wellness Solutions for Life Employee Health Solutions says everyone needs to understand that recovering from trauma takes time and everyone recovers at their own pace. “Whether you have been involved in a traumatic incident or you are supporting someone who is traumatised, it’s important not to rush the process. Suppressed or unresolved trauma can have a long-lasting effect on your work life, family life, relationships and more.”

Dr Mandim added that working through trauma can be scary and painful, so it’s important to get the help of an experienced professional. “The person you choose needs to have experience in dealing with trauma and needs to connect with you in a comfortable way. Speak to your security provider about possible counselling services on offer. They will have specialist resources who understand trauma related to crime.”

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If you are supporting someone who has suffered a traumatic encounter, Dr Mandim says the best thing you can do is to be patient and understanding. “Don’t pressure them into talking but be available if they want to talk. Offer to help them get back into a normal routine like taking them shopping or doing housework together, for example. Encourage them to exercise by offering to go for a walk with them or doing something they enjoy, like a hobby. If it is a loved one, don’t be surprised if they are angry, irritable, withdrawn, or emotionally distant. The changes may be a result of the trauma and may not have anything to do with you or your relationship,” said Dr Mandim.