Something bad happened
When we witness an event which is very upsetting or experience something which is extremely frightening it can have an effect on us that lasts anything from a few days to a few weeks. This is often referred to as a ‘trauma’. How we react to or manage that experience is individual to everyone but some of the common reactions are:
- You can’t stop thinking about it
- You have trouble sleeping and bad dreams.
- Feeling frightened and upset by things that remind you of it.
- Re-living the whole event over again.
- Feeling angry or irritated by friends and family.
- Avoid going out with other people.
- Not wanting to talk about what happened.
For lots of people, these changes may only happen for a short time after the event, but if they last longer there are some things you can do to help.
You could try:
- Activities such as reading, watching TV, gaming, listening to music, doing puzzles.
- Writing down your worries and thoughts on a piece of paper, scrunch it up and throw it in the bin.
- Help your sleep by having a bath, leaving on the light, reading a book, having ‘wind down’ time before bed.
For lots of other ideas click here
Abuse?
Abuse can mean many things. Some events such as physical or sexual abuse need help as soon as possible. It’s not easy to ask for help if you or someone you know is being abused. The important thing to remember is it isn’t your fault and no-one has the right to hurt you or make you do anything that feels wrong.
It’s important to get some help.
Suggestions:
- Telling any adult you trust.
- Phone Child Line on 0800 1111
- Contact Social Services on 0161 255 8250
- Rape Crisis Centre at St. Mary’s Hospital. Call 0161 276 6515
Find Out More
Getting Help:
If these things haven’t helped then there are people that can help. For information about services available in Manchester click here.