PTSD Coping Common Psychological Responses to Traumatic Events By Kendra Cherry Kendra Cherry Facebook Twitter Kendra Cherry, MS, is the author of the "Everything Psychology Book (2nd Edition)" and has written thousands of articles on diverse psychology topics. Kendra holds a Master of Science degree in education from Boise State University with a primary research interest in educational psychology and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Idaho State University with additional coursework in substance use and case management. Learn about our editorial process Updated on August 15, 2021 Medically reviewed Verywell Mind articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and mental healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Steven Gans, MD Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Print Jamie Grill / Getty Images Psychological reactions to a crisis or traumatic events vary considerably from person to person and symptoms and their timelines are typically different for each individual. Responses to Traumatic Events Because psychological responses vary for each person, it's important that those treating or living with individuals undergoing a crisis learn to recognize the common reactions to a traumatic event. Reactions can include changes in behavior, physical well-being, psychological health, thinking patterns, spiritual beliefs, and social interactions. These signs, symptoms, and reactions are common psychological responses to a crisis or traumatic event. Some of them include: Anger, moodiness, and irritability Becoming obsessive Crying Denial Disbelief Disinterest in previous activities Emotional numbness Forgetfulness Grief Guilt Increased use of alcohol and drugs Isolation or withdrawal from others Nightmares and other sleep disturbances Panic Questioning faith or religion Sleeping too much Social withdrawal Responses to a Current Crisis Albert R. Roberts describes the characteristics of individuals who are currently going through a crisis or traumatic event. They include: Beginning to recognize that there's a threatDiscovering that the stress and trauma of the event cannot be dealt with using existing coping skillsExperiencing fear, confusion, and stressExhibiting symptoms of distress and discomfortEntering a state of imbalance where the crisis situation seems insurmountable How You Can Help Someone Through Trauma or Crisis If someone you know has been or is going through a traumatic event or crisis, there are ways you can help, including: Being available to listenReassuring them that they are safeHelping them with household tasks such as shopping, cleaning, cooking, or taking care of kidsSpending time with themNot taking negative emotions or outbursts to heartEncouraging them to get plenty of rest and to eat wellMaking sure they have time aloneRecognizing their suffering and encouraging and supporting their ability to copeMaking sure they have other supportive people and/or networks in their lifeHelping them recognize when it's time to get outside help Treatment May Be Needed Crisis counseling can be very beneficial to help people cope with the negative effects of a crisis situation. While most crisis events are time-limited, long-term exposure to stressors and traumas can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders. Individuals suffering from PTSD experience flashbacks, nightmares, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms, which often become so severe that they interfere with daily life. While PTSD is a serious disorder, psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments. Unfortunately, many people who have been through a disaster or traumatic event don't think they need help even though they acknowledge psychological distress. Because the risk of PTSD and other mental health issues is increased, it's important to encourage individuals who have been through a disaster, crisis, or trauma to seek help. 3 Sources Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Coping with a traumatic event. Roberts, AR. An overview of crisis theory and intervention model. In Crisis Intervention Handbook: Assessment, Treatment, and Research. 4th ed. New York: Oxford University Press; 2015. Sareen J. Posttraumatic stress disorder in adults: impact, comorbidity, risk factors, and treatment. Can J Psychiatry. 2014;59(9):460-7. doi:10.1177/070674371405900902 Additional Reading National Geographic Area Coordination Centers. Reactions to Crisis and Trauma. Roberts, AR. An overview of crisis theory and intervention model. In Crisis Intervention Handbook: Assessment, Treatment, and Research. 4th ed. New York: Oxford University Press; 2015. By Kendra Cherry Kendra Cherry, MS, is the author of the "Everything Psychology Book (2nd Edition)" and has written thousands of articles on diverse psychology topics. Kendra holds a Master of Science degree in education from Boise State University with a primary research interest in educational psychology and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Idaho State University with additional coursework in substance use and case management. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit Speak to a Therapist for PTSD Advertiser Disclosure × The offers that appear in this table are from partnerships from which Verywell Mind receives compensation.