Day to Day Stress:

• Being in a traffic jam
• Going for a job interview
• Being in a relationship breakup

Signs of Day to Day Stress:

• Increased heart rate
• Muscle tension
• Headaches
• Feeling of excitement or anger

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

• Name given to the long term symptoms that result from trauma

Symptoms:

• Can vary in different people, ability to cope with stress, lifestyle and background
• Flashbacks
• Anxiety
• Anger
• Agitation
• Over reacting
• Lack of concentration
• Sleeping difficulties

Secondary Symptoms:

• Drugs or alcohol
• Isolation
• Trouble working
• Relationship problems
• Depression

STEPS IN MANAGING TRAUMATIC STRESS

1. Recognise and Understand Signs & Symptoms

2. Uncover Unhelpful Coping Mechanisms

• Going out of your way to avoid trigger situations
• Not wanting to talk about it
• Avoiding anybody who was involved

3. Develop Positive Coping Strategies

• See a doctor
• See a counselor
• Join a group of people in the same situation
• Exercise
• Join an art program
• Rebuild old friendships and relationships
• Rebuild social life
• Relaxation exercises
• Moving house if living near a traumatic scene
• Creative writing