How do we deal with stress and stress reactions after an earthquake?

During or immediately after an unexpected extreme event, many people react by going into what is commonly known as shock, where they feel as if time has stopped, they feel numb, and nothing seems real.

This may be accompanied by physical reactions such as increased heart rate, sweating, tremors or shortness of breath, and emotional reactions.

As for the behavioral actions, they are anxiety, alertness, poor concentration and negative feelings, as many find it difficult to think clearly, and they do not know how to deal with this situation, and some may also react by not feeling anything at all. 

These reactions may last for minutes or hours during or after the event, and they usually subside after a few hours, although some people may feel these symptoms for a longer period, depending on their psychological immunity. 

In order to reduce the impact of the event, psychological first aid can be used to support people in a state of trauma, by helping them feel reassured and cope.
Coping is the process of managing difficult circumstances and finding ways to reduce or tolerate the effects of stress.

How do we deal with stress and stress reactions after an earthquake?

– We remember that the reactions that occur are normal reactions to an abnormal situation
– We allow ourselves to feel sad 
– We talk about what happened and express our feelings and concerns 
– We maintain the daily routine as much as possible 
– We eat, get a good sleep 
– Socialize and talk to others Instead of withdrawing 
– we ask for support and help without shame
– we accept the help that is offered by the professionals
– we give ourselves time for spiritual connection