7.0 Keeping healthy: Looking after you
When a loved one is missing expect to experience a range of reactions and emotions.
Not everyone reacts or feels in the same way at the same time.
It is helpful to identify the effects you experience.
Why ?
Because you have permission to feel and express yourself.
7.1 Expect to experience some, or all of these Psychological effects:
. Slowed thinking
. Confusion
. Disorientation
. Memory problems
. Flashbacks
. Nightmares
. Poor attention span
. Difficulties problem solving
. Loss of control
. The 'what if's'
7.2 Expect to experience some, or all of these Emotional effects:
. Fear
. Anger
. Frustration
. Guilt
. Blame
. Anxiety or panic
. Depression
. Sadness
. Irritability
. Numbness
. Withdrawing
. Wanting to hide
. Helplessness
. Hopelessness
7.3 Expect to experience some, or all of these Physical effects:
. Nausea
. Tremors
. Chills
. Sweating
. Lack of co-ordination
. Palpitations
. Chest pains
. High blood pressure
. Headaches
. Sleep disturbance
. Diarrhoea
. Dizziness
. Change in appetite
. Startled responses
7.4 Communicate with family and friends:
. Allow yourself to feel the pain and be upset or angry
. Talk openly and honestly with people close to you about what
you feel and what you are going through
. Get sleep, eat nutritious meals regularly and exercise lightly
. Retain routines and avoid making life changing decisions
. Be careful of using alcohol or drugs to alleviate pain
. Don't blame yourself for what has happened
. If you need professional support get it from your own family
doctor or contact registered professionals
