본문 바로가기

Opinion

Traumatic Incidents and How Can We Get over Them with Psychological Help

© Korean Counseling Psychological Association

 On May 23rd a traumatic incident happened. The incident. The incident happened as the plane door opened immediately before landing at Daegu Airport at 12:45 p.m. The airplane, operated by Asiana Airlines, departed from Jeju Island at 11:49 a.m. Friday. It was about 200 meters above ground when the emergency door was ripped opened. Passengers were exposed to the fierce wind blowing into the plane through the emergency door, which was completely ajar, for about 10 minutes until the plane landed. Some young passengers were reported to be panicking crying and screaming as the air pressure deafened them. Among the injured passengers were eight student athletes traveling to compete in the National Junior Sports Festival that kicks off Saturday in the neighboring city of Ulsan, according to the Jeju Self-governing Provincial Office of Education. 

 

 It would be a trauma to passengers, especially little students.

 

 At least nine people amongst 194 passengers suffered minor injuries and were sent to a hospital in Daegu. Disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, transportation accidents, or wildfires are typically unexpected, sudden, and overwhelming. For many people, there are no outwardly visible signs of physical injury, but nonetheless, there can be an emotional toll. It is common for people who have experienced disaster to have strong emotional reactions. Understanding responses to distressing events can help you cope effectively with your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and help you along the path to recovery.

 

 Following a disaster, people frequently feel stunned, disoriented or unable to integrate distressing information. Once these initial reactions subside, people can experience a variety of thoughts and behaviors. There are common responses, like intense or unpredictable feelings. You may be anxious, nervous, overwhelmed, or grief-stricken. You may also feel more irritable or moody than usual. Changes to thoughts and behavior patterns also can emerge. You might have repeated and vivid memories of the event. These memories may occur for no apparent reason and may lead to physical reactions such as rapid heartbeat or sweating. It may be difficult to concentrate or make decisions. Sleep and eating patterns also can be disrupted—some people may overeat and oversleep, while others experience a loss of sleep and loss of appetite. 

 

 You might develop a sensitivity to environmental factors. Sirens, loud noises, burning smells, or other environmental sensations may stimulate memories of the disaster creating heightened anxiety. These “triggers” may be accompanied by fears that the stressful event will be repeated. 

 

 Fortunately, research shows that most people are resilient and over time are able to bounce back from tragedy. It is common for people to experience stress in the immediate aftermath, but within a few months most people are able to resume functioning as they did prior to the disaster. It is important to remember that resilience and recovery are the norm, not prolonged distress. There are a number of steps you can take to build emotional well-being and gain a sense of control following a disaster, including the following. 

 

 Give yourself time to adjust. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced and try to be patient with changes in your emotional state. Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. Social support is a key component to disaster recovery. Family and friends can be an important resource. You can find support and common ground from those who've also survived the disaster. You may also want to reach out to others not involved who may be able to provide greater support and objectivity. 

 

 Find a local support group led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals. Support groups are frequently available for survivors. Group discussion can help you realize that you are not alone in your reactions and emotions. Support group meetings can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems. 

 

 Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs because they can be a numbing diversion that could detract from and delay active coping and moving forward from the disaster. 

 

 If you notice persistent feelings of distress or hopelessness and you feel like you are barely able to get through your daily responsibilities and activities, consult with a licensed mental health professional such as a psychologist. Psychologists are trained to help people address learning and practicing how to manage stress and anxiety. Individuals learn how to manage stress and stabilize themselves. It can help to improve a person's quality of life. Promote positive thinking and behavior patterns to pursue a richer life. 

 

Kim Jiwoo (1-8)¹ | Staff Reporter


1) 10807jiwookim@gmail.com