Such can be the case with the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy. In my previous post, I discussed post traumatic stress disorder, and the common signs and symptoms. Those who experienced PTSD in the weeks and months following Sandy may still feel the lingering effects of those trying weeks. But what about those who were not as deeply affected? What about those who weren't impacted at all by the storm? These individuals, farther removed from the event, who are finding themselves feeling uneasy during this anniversary time are experiencing a normal response to exposure to graphic and emotional stimuli. Just as a counselor who spends hours a day hearing and empathizing with trauma survivors internalizes these struggles, so too can the person who is exposed to a barrage of news stories recounting the horror of last year's storm.
If you find yourself annoyed or aggravated over the onslaught of images of destruction, or resistant to watching interviews of mothers who lost their children, and families who lost their homes, know that you are not being insensitive, but are rather having a very normal reaction. In the days to come, local news stations will continue to recount the events of last year in great detail, and we all may find ourselves thinking, "enough already."
How can you shield yourself from this vicarious trauma? For starters, not spending hours in front of your television or computer can be a powerful tool. Though this may seem common sense, it is often difficult to pull oneself away from graphic images, much like rubber necking on a highway. No one really wants to see others suffer, but a morbid curiosity inherent in us all keeps us pulled in. If media cannot be avoided entirely, either feasibly or logistically, be sure to take breaks in between your exposure to images, videos, and interviews. Take this time to focus on something completely different; engage in a manual activity, such as cleaning, to change gears from sitting and thinking to moving and doing. Take care of yourself in whatever way is most helpful; for some this is exercise, for others it is reading, maybe a hot shower or bath would help you feel relaxed and less stressed.
Again, while these suggestions may seem obvious, in times of stress we often forget to do the most basic things that keep us happy and healthy. As always, Current Counseling is here as a powerful tool for reframing, redirection, and information regarding your mental and emotional health.