After A Traumatic Event

Alcoholism is an illness that casts a shadow over everything it touches. It affects individuals, their spouses and children, their work, and society in general.

Here at Employee Assistance Program, we see many employees and family members whose lives have been profoundly affected by alcohol. Many times, employees come to the EAP for help with a marital conflict, job stress, depression, or a legal or financial concern only to discover through counseling that alcohol abuse or addiction is at the root of their problem.

Among the obstacles to recognizing alcoholism are many myths that surround it. Many people believe things about alcoholism that simply aren't true. These myths cloud our thinking and keep us from recognizing alcoholism when it shows up in ourselves or in someone we know.

This has been a very difficult time for us all. The images of death, destruction, and human suffering bombard us daily. It has left many of us struggling to understand the tragedy and cope with its aftermath.

The following list describes some normal reactions to a traumatic event. You may have experienced some of these in the weeks following the event. Understand that these are normal and generally temporary in nature:

• Discomfort being alone
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling sad, scared, angry, or confused
• Feeling vulnerable - Loss of control
• Remembering past traumas/losses
• Feeling exhausted

 

If you have experienced the above, here are some things you can do:

• Talk to trusted others such as friends, family, co-workers or clergy
• Reestablish your normal routine as soon as it is comfortable to do so.
• Limit your exposure to television
• Take it slow - don't push yourself prematurely
• Avoid alcohol, drugs, excessive junk food
• Get plenty of rest and exercise

 

It may be that you are feeling overwhelmed by the tragedy or are having trouble getting back to normal. Perhaps you simply would feel better by talking about your reactions in a safe setting. If so, remember the counseling services available to you through the County's Employee Assistance Program. Free, professional, confidential and caring, the EAP stands ready to help you cope with the emotional aftermath of this terrible tragedy.

For More Information Please Contact:

EAP
Phone: (408) 241-7772 (Please feel free to call and schedule an appointment)