The impacts can be lasting and powerful for many who are involved. Emergency services, health care professionals, volunteers, families and other caring individuals can be traumatized by simply caring and helping those who are most injured or traumatized. It is normal for children, and even adults, to be sad, fearful, moody, upset, or even afraid to be alone for months after a trauma. Entire families are affected. Accidents, violence and other tragic events can affect a person or a community's entire way of life.
People respond differently in, during and after a crisis or a dangerous situation.
But everyone is changed in ways they may not yet realize. Some feel the brunt of the experience immediately. Others appear to be strong or even numb to their experience. Helping everyone express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and open manner is one of the most positive things you can do. People who are friends or co-workers of those directly affected can be affected as well by what is known as secondary trauma.