The impact of a traumatic event affects individuals in a variety of ways. Some of the symptoms can be extremely difficult to manage. If someone you care about is experiencing the after-effects of trauma, there are some things you can do to help.
• Spending time with them will help them to stay connected. This is extremely important and aids in their recovery.
• Listening without offering advice. Allow the person to talk about how they feel. Feelings are natural and normal.
• Resist the urge to “fix it”.
• Recovery takes time, and offering a safe place for them to express how they feel can really help their recovery process.
• Offer reassurance that they are safe. Trauma undermines our ability to feel safe in the world.
• Encourage the person to ask for help and support. Offer practical assistance with daily tasks such as cooking or picking up children where possible.
There is no set time for the recovery from trauma. There is usually a natural recovery that occurs after trauma. For some people, that can be a slow process and take months or even years.
We offer free state-wide professional counselling to people impacted by road trauma. To make an appointment, call 1300 367 797.
Guides for dealing with road trauma
Our specialised guides dealing with the impact of road trauma provide additional information and support and provide some tools that can help you and others cope after a road crash.
- Grief following road trauma – Advice for those who have lost a loved one due to a road collision.
- First on the scene and witnesses of road trauma – Advice for those who witnessed or were first on the scene of a serious or fatal collision.
- Common reactions to road trauma – After a trauma, people may go through a range of foreign feelings and emotions.
