SLS Web Magazine

Adult tips for Trauma Prevention

BY: Dr. Michael Nuccitelli

Take the Adult Trauma Response Self Assessment Test.

Adult tips to prevent a Trauma Response

Be mindful of any increase in alcohol consumption. Practice social drinking and refrain from becoming intoxicated.
Make sure to schedule enough down time to spend with family and friends.
Prepare yourself for the ongoing media explosion related to the terrorist attacks and/or violent events. Reduce TV time and rent videos from your local video store.
Do something charitable or decorate your yard in patriotic colors.
Watch your eating habits and be sure to increase your exercise.
Allow yourself to sleep a little longer on your days off even if it´s for 15 minutes.
Increase your H₂O intake. Water acts as a natural anti-anxiety drink.
Be careful not to isolate and avoid others. Spend time with friends or loved ones.
Feel comfortable expressing sadness related to violent episodes and/or the recent terrorist events.
Watch all spending habits and be particularly mindful of credit card purchases and ATM withdrawals.
Be careful not to argue or bicker with your spouse and pay close attention to how volatile they become.
Spend more time watching comedies and funny home videos.
Set up an appointment with a psychologist if you need to talk to someone. Psychological suffering can be helped.
Play more music while working around the house or driving in your car.
Increased touching behavior with loved ones is a natural anxiety reducer. Hugs lower blood pressure.
Call your parents and tell them that you miss them. Let them know you´re doing okay.
Practice slow deep breathing if your anxiety or anger becomes problematic.
Be understanding of coworkers who may be suffering from anxiety and/or trauma. Spend more time at the water cooler and be flexible.
Meditate, pray, or read more often to give your brain some down time. Walks in nature are also spiritual.
Do something special on weekends and/or your days off. Take your spouse or family to dinner and tell them how much you appreciate them.