Care for the Caregiver

Caregivers experiencing symptoms of extreme fear, those with avoidance urges, hyper-arousal and chronic re-experiencing of a psychological stressor should contact a physician or care worker for a professional assessment. ¹²

Encourage caregivers to use the following positive coping mechanisms:

• Maintain a view of oneself as competent and a view of others as willing and able to provide support. ¹²
• Focus on the current implications of the trauma and avoid regretting past decisions and actions. ¹²
• Focus on the current implications of the trauma and avoid regretting past decisions and actions. ¹²

Positive Coping Strategies are those that help reduce anxiety, lessen other distressing reactions and improve the situation in a way so that caregivers and others do not harm the survivor further. These types of coping actions improve things not only for today, but for the future as well. ¹²

Positive coping strategies include:

• Use of natural supports (family, friends, etc.) ¹²
• Learn about trauma and PTSD ¹²
• Talk to other trauma survivors for support ¹²
• Talk to a doctor about trauma and PTSD ¹²
• Practice relaxation methods ¹²
• Increase positive distracting activities ¹²
• Volunteer in the community ¹²

For more information, please visit:
Self-Care and Self-Help Following Disasters