Most people involved in a traumatic incident experience some kind of emotional reaction. Although each person s experience is different, there are a number of common responses that are experienced by the majority of those involved. It is reassuring to know that, even though these feelings may be very unpleasant, they are normal reactions in a normal person to an abnormal event. You are not losing your mind or going crazy if you have these feelings. The signs and symptoms described above are common and natural reactions to a life threatening experience.
People react differently to the experience of being involved in a traumatic incident.
Some react immediately, some after a time, some intensely, some hardly at all. Most reactions are part of the normal process of recovery and help the person adapt to the trauma. They can, however, be very unpleasant for those affected and for their families. Usually symptoms will diminish over a period of a few weeks, although some may last for months or even years, especially if the experience was particularly frightening. You may also find that the feelings get worse when you are reminded of the event or when you discuss your experiences with other people.