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> Counseling & Psychological Services
Counseling Services
Common Reactions to Grief, Loss, or Traumatic Events
Everyone reacts differently to loss or trauma. Below are some common experiences:
| Emotional: |
Cognitive: |
| Sadness |
Difficulty concentrating |
| Shock/numbness |
Preoccupation with event |
| Nervousness |
Recurring images of event |
| Vulnerability |
Asking "why" |
| Anger |
Questions about life/death |
| Irritability |
Thinking things will never be normal |
| Helpless |
Dreams/nightmares |
| Guilt |
Memories of past loss/trauma |
| Denial |
Wishing you could take things back or "trade" something to change things |
| Regret |
Re-experiencing the event |
| Detachment "surreal" |
Difficulty remembering some aspects |
| Behavioral: |
Physical: |
| Need to talk |
Trouble sleeping/sleeping too much |
| Wish to be with others |
Loss of appetite |
| Desire to be alone |
Fatigue |
| Avoidance the topic/feelings |
Nausea |
| Low motivation |
Headaches |
| Loss of interest in usual activities |
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Experiencing many of the above reactions at varying times is normal, especially in the days following.
Here are some coping strategies that can help:
* Allow yourself to experience your feelings-don’t ignore or stuff them
* Take the time you need to take care of yourself-you don’t have to “go back to normal” too soon
* Talk about it with others
* Avoid alcohol, drugs, or other unhealthy coping mechanisms
* Get plenty of sleep and rest
* Eat healthy
* When you feel ready try to get back into your normal routine
* Do what you feel is best for you
You may wish to talk to a professional if:
* You need someone to talk to
* Your reactions are so intense or distressing you find it difficult to function
* Your feelings or experiences of grief continue to be intense after several weeks or months
* You have anxiety or depression
* You’re experiencing reactions from past trauma or loss
Resources on Campus:
For Counseling or Consultation:
Counseling & Psychological Services
211 Swingle Hall
994-4531
www.montana.edu/wwwcc
For Academic Support/Leave
Dean of Students Office
120 SUB
994-2826
http://www.montana.edu/wwwds/
http://www.montana.edu/wwwds/emergency.html
-or-
Your Academic Advisor or Department Head
Information Provided by:
Counseling & Psychological Services
211 Swingle Hall
994-4531
www.montana.edu/wwwcc
Offering free & confidential counseling services
M-F: 8-11:45am &
12:45-5pm
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